Nasal resistance to airflow (its measurement, reproducibility and normal parameters).

A method of rhinomanometry is described for use in clinical research work. The statistical distribution of nasal resistance values is studied in a sample of 59 normal individuals. The variation of nasal resistance within two individuals is studied over a period of 7 hours. The choice of appropriate statistical tests to be used when comparing nasal resistance values is discussed. The reproducibility of nasal resistance measurements is assessed in 47 normal individuals. The results were used to define a normal range of values for total nasal resistance to airflow.