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Nasal resistance in recumbency and sleep
H Miljeteig1, P Cole, J S Haight
1Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.
Rhinology
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Nasal resistance to airflow increases significantly when moving from a seated to a lying position, even in healthy individuals. This change in nasal resistance in recumbency may be due to subtle mucosal or septal abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Physiology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Nasal airflow resistance is crucial for normal respiration.
- Changes in body posture can affect nasal airflow dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify changes in nasal resistance upon assuming a recumbent position.
- To investigate the influence of sleep on nasal resistance in different postures.
Main Methods:
- Computer-assisted rhinomanometry was used to measure nasal airflow resistance.
- Measurements were taken in 21 adult males in seated, recumbent, and sleeping positions.
Main Results:
- Mean nasal resistance increased from 0.14 Pa/cm3/s when seated to 0.35 Pa/cm3/s in recumbency.
- The increase in resistance was generally modest and not significantly affected by sleep in most subjects.
Conclusions:
- Assuming a recumbent posture elevates nasal airflow resistance in healthy adults.
- Subtle, unrecognized mucosal abnormalities or minor septal deviations may explain marked increases in resistance in some individuals when lying down.