Rhinomanometry

Rhinomanometry gives us an objective measurement of how much blockage is present in each side of your nose. Sometimes a nose can feel very blocked but the airflow is actually normal, or vice versa (1). The test doesn't pinpoint the exact cause on its own, but when combined with other tests such as nasoendoscopy, it can help identify the reason for the blockage, such as enlarged turbinates from allergies or a deviated septum. That distinction matters because each cause is managed differently.

You sit comfortably while two small nasal olives are placed into both nostrils. One olive measures airflow while the other records pressure. You then breathe normally through your nose for a few breaths, and the process is repeated on the other side. It takes around 5 minutes and you can discuss the result with your doctor straight afterwards.

A visual examination like nasoendoscopy shows us the physical structures inside your nose. Rhinomanometry measures how your nasal passages actually perform while you're breathing, which can sometimes reveal airway issues that look normal on visual inspection alone (2).

Rhinomanometry can help confirm whether there's a genuine measurable blockage and whether it's likely to respond to medical treatment or may require surgery to fix. It can also be repeated after treatment to objectively track changes in your nasal airflow.

Rhinomanometry is sometimes used alongside allergen provocation testing, where a suspected allergen is applied to the nasal passages and we then measure whether nasal resistance increases. This can be a useful way to objectively confirm an airborne allergy when other tests are inconclusive (3).

You may be asked to stop using nasal decongestant sprays, antihistamines, or corticosteroid nasal sprays for a short period before the test, as these can affect the results. Contact our clinic if you have any questions about this.