[The effect of swimming on nasal patency and tubal function in children. Prospective 24-week cross-over study in 154 children].

This prospective cross-over study involving 154 healthy school children over a time span of 24 weeks revealed a favorable influence of swimming on nasal patency and tubal function in children. The positive influence of bathing on middle ear ventilation seems to be of shorter duration than that on nasal resistance. Tympanogram distribution and nasal resistance are most favorable in girls, older children and in the spring-summer period. A good nasal patency is often associated with a good middle ear ventilation. Advising children against swimming because of sinusitis and otitis is probably not justified.