Red Light Improves Nasal Symptoms (study summary)

660 nm wavelength (red) light has shown an ability to treat allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, and nasal obstruction reduction. It can also increase respiratory flow. Researchers separated subjects into two groups. Group 1 received 40 mW/nostril of 660 nm red light nasal therapy, as well as an antihistamine. Group 2 received only the antihistamine. Each subject had at least one of these symptoms.

• nasal congestion
• runny nose
• itchy nose
• sneezing
• clear rhinorrhea
• nasal congestion
• pale discoloration of nasal mucosa
• red, watery eyes

Researchers measured before and after red light exposure:

• self-reported symptoms
• active anterior rhinomanometry [technique to measure nasal air resistance]
• acoustic rhinometry [technique to measure nasal allergic response]

All rhinitis symptoms improved for the red light group at 30 minutes after treatment finished. The symptomatic self-reporting went down, and objective scores showed nasal improvement.

• nasal resistance slightly decreased
• one of the volume measurements significantly increased
• one subject said his symptoms were cured
• 6 reported much improved
• 12 reported slightly improved
• 11 reported unchanged

Two days after red light treatment:

• 7 reported much improved
• 16 reported slightly improved
• 7 reported unchanged