Effectiveness of a New Internal Nasal Dilator in Pulmonary Function and Exercise Performance

Abstract

PURPOSE This study aimed to examine changes in pulmonary function induced by an internal nasal dilator (IND) and to determine whether an IND enhances exercise performance. METHODS Young, healthy men (n=13) were randomly assigned either an IND or control (CON) session to perform a pulmonary function test (PFT). All participants then completed treadmill exercise tests that consisted of maximal and submaximal running with or without an IND. RESULTS Some variables of PFTs were increased in men that used INDs compared to those in the CON group (p<.05, respectively). There was a significant difference between sessions in energy cost during the running test (65% VO2max) (p<.05). In the IND group, respiratory muscle fatigue during exercise was lower, and relaxation of respiratory muscles after exercise was faster, as compared with the CON group (p<.05). CONCLUSIONS IND may contribute to improvements in pulmonary function. Furthermore, INDs may reduce energy costs and respiratory muscle fatigue during submaximal exercise by maintaining nasal breathing and facilitating respiratory muscle relaxation after maximal exercise tests.

Keywords

• nasal dilator
• pulmonary function
• running efficiency
• muscle fatigue
• muscle relaxation