Nasal Peak Flow Rate Records in Work Related Nasal Blockage

Abstract

Eleven patients, who had symptoms of blocking nose in relation to exposure to airway irritants in their work environment, and 11 control subjects recorded nasal and bronchial peak expiratory flow rates (PEFR_N and PEFR_B) during a working week. In contrast to the control subjects the patients demonstrated a pattern of gradual decrease in PEFR_N during the working week with restitution during the subsequent weekend and a different day rhythm in PEFR_N during working days from days off. The changes in PEFR_B were similar but less pronounced. The results indicate that the symptoms of nasal blockage can be visualized by following the PEFR_N during a working week and that the changes in PEFR_N may have a relationship to different environmental exposures.

Key Words:

• nasal obstruction
• lung function
• peak flow rale
• work environment