AN UPDATE ON ALLERGIC RHINITIS AND IMPACT ON ASTHMA

Abstract

Allergic rhinitis is a major chronic respiratory disease due to its
prevalence, impact on quality of life, productivity, economic burden. It is often associated with conjunctivitis, sinusitis and is a risk factor for asthma. In 1999 during the Allergic Rhinitis and Its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) World Health Organization workshop, the suggestions were made by a panel of experts and based on evidence using an extensive available review of the literature. The new classification of allergic rhinitis was proposed, which was subdivided into ‘intermittent’ or ‘persistent’ disease. The severity of allergic rhinitis has been classified as ‘mild’ or ‘moderate/severe’ depending on the severity of symptoms and quality of life outcomes. A stepwise therapeutic approach is proposed and consists of allergen avoidance, pharmacotherapy, immunotherapy and education. Patients with persistent allergic rhinitis should be evaluated for asthma and pateints with asthma should be evaluated for rhinitis and a combined strategy should be used to treat the upper and lower airways diseases.