Nasal airflow measuring devices and methods

摘要

Devices and methods for measuring and quantifying airflow through the adult human nose by detecting and measuring the amount of moisture condensate in contact with a pair of flat surfaces or substrates positioned beneath the patient's nose for a predetermined length of time, usually about three (3) seconds. The device comprises a microprocessor, a memory, an output device and a moisture sensing unit. The moisture sensing unit, comprising twin left and right detectors, produces output signals representative of the amounts of moisture condensate in contact with the left and right detectors, respectively. The microprocessor determines the volume density, current density, or relative humidity density from a series of measurements of the condensation as it propagates and decays during exhalation. The microprocessor stores the results in the memory and transmits the data, as well as calculated nasal condition information, to the output device, preferably a digital display. The device and techniques for using the device are useful in diagnosing nasal obstructions, documenting patient symptoms, and assessing potential responses to therapy.