A clinical study of the prevalence and impact of allergic rhinitis in children with asthma

Abstract

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma are highly prevalent conditions that cause major illness worldwide. Surveys have shown that approximately 60-80% of children with asthma have symptoms of AR. Objectives: To study the prevalence of AR and its impact in children with asthma. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study of 130 children between the age group of 5 and 15 years, with the diagnosis of asthma, who presented with symptoms and signs of AR based on AR and comorbidities training module formed the study group. A detailed history and examination were recorded in a systematically designed pro forma. Apart from the routine investigation and management, these childrens nasal smear for eosinophils was taken to confirm the diagnosis of AR. Results: Among the study group, the prevalence of AR in children with asthma was found to be 76/130 (58%), of which 43/76 (56%) had intermittent and 33/76 (44%) had persistent AR. 66% of the children with AR had persistent asthma (p<0.001). Nasal smear eosinophilia was positive in 54/76 (71%) of the children with AR. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of AR in children with asthma. The presence of AR in children with asthma is associated with poor asthma control.