Quality of life in allergic rhinitis: relationship with clinical, immunological, and functional aspects

Background The relationship among nasal obstruction, T-helper type 2-dependent inflammation, nasal airflow limitation, and reversibility to the nasal decongestion test has been evidenced in allergic rhinitis (AR). Moreover, quality of life (QoL) has been widely evaluated in AR and its evaluation is considered in numerous trials. Objective The aim of this cross-sectional study was to identify the QoL as measured by the Quality of Life Questionnaire in a population of patients with AR and to compare it with clinical, immunological, and functional parameters. Methods One hundred and twenty-three patients with persistent AR were prospectively and consecutively evaluated. Clinical evaluation, skin prick test, nasal scraping for cytology, rhinomanometry, decongestion test, and QoL questionnaire were performed in all subjects. Results There was a significant relationship among QoL and functional and immunological parameters. Particularly, the multivariate analysis showed that having more than two sensitivities was a determinant of the QoL. The eosinophil count was significantly associated with QoL as well as the baseline nasal flow (mL/s) with the eye symptoms scale only. Conclusion This study provides the first evidence that QoL in AR is strictly associated with allergic inflammation and eye symptoms significantly contribute to impairment of QoL. QoL, moreover, represents an important aspect to consider in managing patients with AR as it has a relationship with clinical, immunological, and functional parameters.