ABSTRACT
This study aimed at investigating the effects of nasal cleansing and massage maneuvers on upper airway patency in mouth-breathing children. This is a case report on eight children, aged 7 to 10 years, with a speech-language-hearing diagnosis of mouth breathing and otorhinolaryngological assessment and clinical diagnosis of rhinitis. Nasal airflow and patency were respectively assessed with the Glatzel mirror and Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow (PNIF). Then, they were submitted to nasal cleansing and massage maneuvers with a saline solution, followed by reassessment with the Glatzel mirror and PNIF to compare results. The medians of total nasal airflow quantification were significant. Data on unilateral nasal cavity measurement indicated a sharp increase in nasal airflow in each nostril, with statistically significant differences between before and after nasal cleansing and massage maneuvers. The medians of the total PNIF were significant after the cleansing. It is concluded that the nasal airflow increased in PNIF after the cleansing maneuver.
Keywords:
Mouth Breathing; Respiratory Function Tests; Diagnostic Techniques, Respiratory System; Airway Obstruction; Child