[A questionnaire survey of asthma in children with co-morbid allergic rhinitis]

Sawako Masuda1, Takao Fujisawa, Kosei Iguchi

  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, National Mie Hospital.

Arerugi = [Allergy]
|August 3, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Children with asthma and allergic rhinitis (AR) often experience milder asthma, a higher incidence of atopic asthma, and a greater likelihood of cold air-induced exacerbations. Early attention to nasal symptoms is crucial for better asthma management in pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Allergy and Immunology
  • Epidemiology

Context:

  • Bronchial asthma frequently co-occurs with allergic rhinitis (AR).
  • Understanding the interplay between upper and lower airway diseases in children is essential for comprehensive care.
  • A significant portion of asthmatic children present with comorbid nasal conditions.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the relationship between asthma and upper airway diseases, specifically allergic rhinitis, in pediatric patients.
  • To compare clinical characteristics of asthmatic children with and without comorbid perennial AR.
  • To identify factors influencing asthma severity and exacerbation triggers in the presence of AR.

Summary:

  • A survey of 333 asthmatic children revealed that 46.5% had nasal diseases, with 35.7% having perennial AR.
  • Children with comorbid AR showed a lower percentage of non-atopic asthma, milder asthma severity, and a higher prevalence of family history of perennial AR.
  • Upper airway symptoms often preceded or coincided with asthma onset, and 38.7% experienced simultaneous upper and lower airway exacerbations.

Impact:

  • Highlights the importance of evaluating nasal symptoms in children diagnosed with asthma, particularly those with atopic asthma and a family history of AR.
  • Emphasizes the need for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of nasal conditions to improve overall asthma control in children.
  • Suggests that addressing allergic rhinitis may lead to better management outcomes for pediatric asthma.
Abstract

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