What’s involved?
Rhinomanometry measures the pressure and flow in the nasal airways which can provide an indication of any nasal airway obstruction (nasal resistance). It can assess nasal patency, monitor treatment effects and outcomes (medical or surgical), assist in determining the need for surgery and provides information about the likelihood of acceptance to therapy.
During the test you will place a cone into both nostrils, one cone will be the testing cone and the other will be blocked. You will close your mouth and breathe in and out of your nose for about 6 breaths as directed by the technician. The cones will then be switched so the testing cone tests the other nostril.
The second part of this test is an acoustic measurement of the anatomical nasal space. The measurement is made by sound waves. The test involves placing a plastic tube connected to the sound tube against the nostril being tested. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask one of our friendly technicians.
What are the risks?
Rhinomanometry is a simple and safe test with very limited risks. If your nasal airways are very blocked it is possible you may feel slightly lightheaded when breathing in and out through the nose with the mouth closed. For this reason the test is performed in a seated position and it is expected that any light-headedness would quickly pass once resuming to normal breathing.
The only contraindcations to this test is anyone who is likely physically unable to perform the test because of weakness, pain, lack of co-ordination or psychosis. Please advise the staff if any of these relate to you. We aim to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
What happens next?
Upon completion of the procedure, the test results will be formulated and sent to your referring doctor and any additional doctor specified by you. You will need to arrange a follow up appointment with your referring doctor to discuss the results.