A Study of Impact of Allergic Rhinitis on Quality of Life of People in Western U.P.

Study of Impact of Allergic Rhinitis on Quality of Life of People in Western U.P.

Abstract

Background: Background: Allergic rhinitis is an ailment affecting 0.8 to 39.7% of the global inhabitants. Nasal congestion is the most bothering symptom of allergic rhinitis. Upper respiratory tract is most affected by this long-lasting ailment. The troublesome nature of AR symptoms severely affects daily life activities such as working ability, examination performance, life’s quality and psychosocial comfort. Subjects and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted among 120 patients regardless of their age and gender who presented in the ENT department at Teerthanker Mahaveer Hospital and Research Centre, Moradabad with AR. Detailed history was taken followed by complete ENT examination. Quality of life was assessed using “Nocturnal Rhino-conjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire”. Questionnaire was given to the patient to elicit impression of AR on quality of life and scoring was done according to questionnaire. Results: 62.5% and 37.5% of the subjects were male and female respectively. According to NRQLQ, most affected domain was of practical problems (3.97) viz. ‘have to avoid symptom triggers’ (dust, cigarette smoke, strong smells and perfumes), ‘need to rub nose or eyes’ & ‘have to take medication’. QoL was lesser in subjects having ear, pharynx, larynx and eye related findings/complaints as compared to subjects without ear, pharynx, larynx and eye related complaints. p<0.01 which is statistically significant in our study. Conclusion: There is significant effect of symptoms of AR on quality of life of subjects. Diagnosing AR early and implementing better therapeutic measures can impressively improve condition of subjects of AR.