Health and Environmental Sciences
Help us investigate the impact of acoustic therapy on nasal health! Are you a healthy individual aged 18-80 experiencing symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis, AR) or chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS)?
We are conducting a study to look at how vibration therapy may change bacteria and fungi in your nose, your immune system, and how it might improve your symptoms and quality of life. As part of the study, you will be asked to use a study device twice daily for four weeks. This will involve three study visits of 1 hour each and you will receive a $30 supermarket voucher as a token of appreciation after each study visit.
If you're interested in participating or would like to know more information, please email the study supervisor, Dr Kelvin Lau, kelvin.lau@aut.ac.nz or call +64 9 921 9666 ext. 8062
Inclusion criteria:
• Experiencing symptoms of AR (hay fever) or CRS (such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, facial pain/pressure, loss of smell, postnasal drip, and fatigue)
• Aged 18-80
• A non-smoker
Exclusion criteria:
1. Fixed structural cause of nasal congestion, such as deviated septum, nasal valve collapse or Grade 3-4 polyps
2. Current nasal crusting or ulceration on rhinoscopy
3. History of severe nose bleeding within the last 3 months
4. Anticoagulation use (acetylsalicylic acid allowed)
5. Known pregnancy
6. Allergic sensitivity to silicone or any other component of the device
7. Inability to read and understand English
8. Inability to perform treatment due to underlying medical condition.
Approved by the Health and Disability Ethics Committee on 2025-07-25 for 3 years.
25/22
2025 EXP 22987
Kelvin Lau, kelvin.lau@aut.ac.nz
You can browse all AUT research projects currently recruiting for participants on the page below.