Open AccessSymptoms and Signs from the Nose and Sinuses in Asthmatics
Author(s) -
Thorstensen Wenche Moe,
Fossland Nils P. W.,
SueChu Malcom,
Bugten Vegard,
Steinsvaag Sverre K.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
otolaryngology–head and neck surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.232
H-Index - 121
eISSN - 1097-6817
pISSN - 0194-5998
DOI - 10.1177/0194599811416318a278
Subject(s) - medicine , nose , asthma , airway , anesthesia , surgery
Objective The United Airways Disease hypothesis suggests a link between upper and lower airways in asthmatics. However, there is a need to know more about nose and sinus related quality of life, sinonasal symptoms, and objective nasal air flow in asthmatics compared with healthy individuals. Method One hundred asthmatics and 96 nonasthmatic controls underwent a prospective controlled survey from June 2009 to December 2010. Symptoms, quality of life, and nasal airflow were assessed on Visual Analogue Scales (VAS, 0‐100), Sino‐Nasal‐Outcome‐Test (SNOT‐20), and Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow (PNIF), respectively. Results Asthmatics (male/female 41/59; mean age, 44.1 years; range, 19‐64 years) reported significantly more symptoms of nasal obstruction [mean VAS 38mm (SD 26) vs 9 mm (SD 12), P <. 001] than controls (male/female 43/53; mean age, 41 years; range, 20‐65 years). PNIF was significantly lower in asthmatics than controls [mean PNIF 85 l/min (SD 24) vs 102 l/min (SD 19), P <. 001]. Conclusion This study provides further evidence of the clinical importance of the upper airway in the diagnostic and therapeutic management of asthmatic patients.