Persistent allergic rhinitis and indoor air quality perception--an experimental approach

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Allergology
• Human Perception

Background:

• Indoor air quality (IAQ) significantly impacts occupant comfort and cognitive function.
• Individuals with allergic rhinitis may exhibit altered sensory perceptions compared to healthy controls.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare subjective indoor air perception patterns between individuals with allergic rhinitis and control subjects.
• To investigate how temperature influences the perception of air quality, comfort, and mental concentration in these groups.

Main Methods:

• 33 subjects (allergic rhinitis group and controls) were exposed to varying temperatures in an experimental office.
• Subjective perceptions of temperature, air movement, IAQ, and comfort were assessed using visual analogue scales.
• Data were analyzed using mean score comparisons and principal component analysis.

Main Results:

• At 14°C, the allergic rhinitis group reported greater sensations of air dryness than controls.
• At 18°C and 22°C, the allergic rhinitis group associated adverse IAQ perceptions (dryness, heat, stagnant air) with discomfort and impaired concentration.
• Control subjects at 18°C and 22°C correlated these conditions with comfort, freshness, and good IAQ.

Conclusions:

• Allergic rhinitis influences subjective indoor air perception, particularly regarding temperature and air quality.
• Individuals with allergic rhinitis may have heightened sensitivity to perceived air dryness and adverse IAQ factors.
• Findings suggest distinct IAQ perception patterns in allergic populations, impacting comfort and cognitive performance.