The nasal response to isometric exercise.

The cardiovascular response to isometric exercise is well understood. However, the response of the nasal mucosa is less well known. We have attempted to document this response in normal individuals. Ten individuals with no history of nasal disease or allergy were studied. All subjects were asked to perform sustained handgrip on the side of the obstructed nostril for a period of 5 min at 30% of maximum voluntary effort. Nasal cross-sectional area was measured on both sides of the nose using an acoustic rhinometer. The individuals were then rested for at least 30 min and the test repeated with pressure applied by the opposite hand. Statistical analysis was performed by non-parametric methods. There was a significant fall in nasal cross-sectional area on the side of exercise median change = 0.09 cm2, P < 0.01) while cross-sectional area in the contralateral nasal passage increased (median change = 0.35 cm2, P = 0.01). There was no significant differences between these results and those obtained by handgrip on the opposite side. The results indicate that isometric exercise produces nasal obstruction (isotonic exercise) and both afferent and efferent arms of this reflex are side-specific.