Correlation between objective and subjective assessments of nasal patency

The correlation between the subjective sensation of nasal patency and nasal resistance (NR) to airflow was examined in a large population. The subjective estimation was assessed by a visual analogue scale and the NR by active anterior rhinomanometry in 158 subjects. Evaluation and statistical analysis--including correlation and regression analysis--were computerized. A statistically significant correlation was found between the subjective and objective values (r = -0.301, p < 0.001). There was no correlation between the parameters if the groups with or without nasal obstruction were evaluated apart. In 84% of the cases, the narrower side of the nose was identified with both the objective and the subjective methods. Statistically significant correlations were exhibited between the subjective and the objective measures if unilateral NR and the ipsilateral subjective values were related to each other (n = 316, r = -0.476, p < 0.001), in both cases, on the side of the higher and the lower NR. The best correlation was found on the side of the higher NR, that is when nasal breathing is more impeded. Subjective estimation seems to be sufficient only to indicate the more obstructed side of the nose independently from the dimensions of the NR values.