Age-related changes in intranasal air conditioning in the elderly

Elderly patients frequently complain about the feeling of a dry nose and recurrent crusting probably due to age-related degenerative effects of the nasal mucosa. Data on intranasal air conditioning in elderly patients are missing. The aim of the study was to compare intranasal heating and humidification of respiratory air in elderly subjects and a younger control group. Additionally, rhinomanometrical and rhinometrical data were examined.

The study was conceived as randomized, prospective study.

Forty study subjects (median age, 70 years; range, 61-84) and 40 control subjects (median age, 27 years; range, 20-40) were included in the study. In vivo air temperature and humidity values were simultaneously measured at defined intranasal sites. Active anterior rhinomanometry and acoustic rhinometry also were performed in every subject.

In the study group, the median end-inspiratory air temperature (degrees C)/absolute humidity (g/m3) values were 24.0 degrees C/13.8 g/m3 within the nasal valve region and 24.3 degrees C/14.7 g/m3 anterior to the head of the middle turbinate. In the control group, the corresponding values were 27.0 degrees C/15.5 g/m3 and 26.7 degrees C/17.0 g/m3. Temperature and humidity values were significantly lower in the study group (P < .05). The minimal cross-sectional areas and volumes were significantly higher in the study group (P < .05).

Nasal complaints in elderly patients are a consequence of lower intranasal air temperature and humidity values combined with relatively enlarged nasal cavities due to involution atrophy of the nasal mucosa.