Physical exercise requires proper function of the upper and lower airways in order to meet exertional ventilatory requirements. Athletes performing frequent intensive exercise experience more sino-nasal symptoms and demonstrate objective decreases in sino-nasal function when compared with the general population. Sino-nasal dysfunction is known to interfere with sport performance. Nasal epithelial injury, neutrophilic influx, and decreased mucociliary clearance have been associated with intensive training. In this review, the authors provide a comprehensive overview of the prevalence of sino-nasal disease in athletes, the possible underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms, and a summary of diagnostic and treatment options.
Keywords: Chronic rhinosinusitis; Exercise-induced rhinitis; Nasal hyperreactivity; Nasal obstruction; Rhinitis; Upper airway disease.
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