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Nasal dilator strips increase maximum inspiratory flow via nasal wall stabilization
E M Di Somma1, S N West, J R Wheatley
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Westmead Hospital, and University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
The Laryngoscope
|May 20, 1999
Summary
External nasal dilator strips (ENDS) improve nasal breathing by significantly increasing maximum inspiratory flow rates. This device supports nasal walls, enhancing airflow during strenuous nasal breathing.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Physiology
- Nasal Airway Mechanics
Background:
- Nasal breathing can be limited by inspiratory flow limitation due to nasal vestibular wall collapse.
- High ventilatory levels exacerbate this inspiratory flow limitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of an external nasal dilator strip (ENDS) on maximum inspiratory and expiratory flow rates.
- To determine if ENDS influences nasal airflow during maximal nasal breathing.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, randomized study involving 20 Caucasian subjects.
- Maximal effort nasal flow-volume loop studies were conducted with and without ENDS.
- Studies were performed both with and without topical nasal decongestant (oxymetazoline hydrochloride).
Main Results:
- ENDS significantly increased peak inspiratory flow (2.55 to 2.86 L/s) and forced inspiratory flow at 50% vital capacity (2.23 to 2.53 L/s).
- Nasal decongestant improved expiratory flows but not inspiratory flows.
- The combination of ENDS and decongestant enhanced both inspiratory and expiratory maximum flows.
Conclusions:
- ENDS selectively enhances maximum nasal inspiratory flow rates.
- The mechanism involves ENDS supporting lateral nasal vestibular walls, increasing resistance to collapse.
- ENDS improves inspiratory nasal patency during maximal nasal breathing efforts.