Autonomic Nervous Function Tests in Patients with Nasal Hyperreactivity

Abstract

Autonomic nervous function was studied in patients with nasal hyperreactivity (allergic rhinitis and vasomotor rhinitis). The R-R intervals in the EGG were calculated and Aschner's test and Shellong's test were performed as autonomic nervous function tests. The results of these tests were compared with those of normal subjects or patients with other diseases (Menier's disease, discomfort of the throat). The coefficient of variation of R-R intervals (R-Rcv), showed the nasal hyperreactive group did not differ from the other three groups. In patients with nasal allergy the onset of hyperreactive symptoms correlated positively with low level R-Rcv. Aschner's test and Shellong's test results in the nasal huperreactive group showed no abnormality of parasympathetic function, but sympathetic activity was greater than in the normal group. The onset of hyperreactive symptoms in patients with nasal allergy appear to be closely related to increased generalized sympathetic activity.