Paradoxical increase in nasal airway resistance after topical nasal decongestion – does it really exist? A retro‐ and prospective study. (19th February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Swoboda, S.; Thulesius, H.L.; Jessen, M.
• Is Part Of: Clinical otolaryngology. Volume 41:Number 6(2016:Dec.)
• Page Start: 689
• Page End: 693
• Publication Date: 2016-02-19
• Subjects: Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; 617.51005
• DOI: 10.1111/coa.12592
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1749-4478

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To explore the prevalence and reproducibility of paradoxically increased nasal airway resistance after decongestion of the nasal mucosa as well as to identify patient‐related factors associated with it. Design: Retrospective analysis of all rhinomanometric measurements carried out at one ENT department in Sweden in the time between 1990 and 2010. In the baseline material, 207 of 4435 patients (4.7%) showed a paradoxically increased nasal airway resistance >20%. A follow‐up rhinomanometry was performed in patients eligible for the study. Setting: Secondary care centre. Participants: Patients with paradoxically increased nasal airway resistance >20% who returned a complete questionnaire and had not undergone any nasal‐ or sinus surgery. Thirty‐six patients (33–72 years) were eligible for the study. Main outcome measures: All patients answered a questionnaire and underwent rhinoscopy. Nasal airway resistance before and after decongestion with 0.1% xylometazoline hydrochloride was assessed by active anterior rhinomanometry. Results: Twelve of thirty‐six patients (33%) showed a paradoxically increased nasal airway resistance in the follow‐up rhinomanometry. No patient‐related factors were identified. Conclusion: The results indicate the existence and reproducibility of paradoxically increased nasal airway resistance.