Rhinomanometry

A Rhinomanometry test (sometimes called a nasal airway or nasal resistance test) measures how easily air flows through your nose. It checks the pressure and flow in your nasal passages to see if there is any blockage or resistance. Doctors use rhinomanometry to assess nasal health, monitor treatment results, decide if surgery is needed, and understand how well you might respond to therapy. It is also routinely used as part of sleep therapy considerations, as part of a CPAP trial for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea.

What happens during the rhinomanometry test?

- Breathing through cones: A soft cone is placed in each nostril. One cone is used for testing while the other is blocked. You close your mouth and breathe in and out through your nose for about six breaths, guided by the technician. Then the cones are switched to test the other nostril.  

- Sound wave check: The second part of the test uses sound waves to measure the size of your nasal passages. A small plastic tube connected to a sound device is gently placed against your nostril to take the measurement.  

Technologists guide you through each step, making sure you feel comfortable and understand the process.