Evaluation of nasal obstruction in lowlander males in high altitude

Nasal symptoms are a major problem affecting the quality of life of lowlanders deployed at high altitude. Study was carried out in fresh male inductees inducted in high altitude of 11,500 ft (3500 m) above sea level to evaluate the nasal obstruction using the subjective Nasal obstruction and symptom evaluation (NOSE) score and rhinomanometry during the stay in high altitude.

A prospective study was carried out in 100 males inducted into high altitude. The subjects were evaluated using the subjective assessment tool, NOSE scale and rhinomanometry on induction and after 2 months. The data were analysed for NOSE scale in the 1st and 2nd visit by test for equality of proportions and the total nasal airway resistance (Pa) has been expressed as mean ± standard deviation and compared across severity of NOSE score using one way ANOVA and between 1st and 2nd visit using paired t test.

Out of the 100 subjects, 77 came for the 2nd review after 2 months. There was statistically significant worsening in the subjective feeling of nasal obstruction during the stay in high altitude without any significant change in the nasal airway resistance.