Complementary and alternative medicine for allergic rhinitis in Japan

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Allergy & Immunology
• Complementary Medicine

Background:

• Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is widely adopted by individuals with allergic conditions globally.
• Allergic rhinitis management often involves CAM alongside conventional therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current prevalence and patterns of CAM usage in treating allergic rhinitis.
• To understand patient motivations and experiences with CAM for allergic rhinitis.

Main Methods:

• A nationwide survey was conducted using questionnaires distributed to otolaryngologists across 114 Japanese facilities.
• Data were collected from children (<16 years) and adults (≥16 years) diagnosed with allergic rhinitis between September 2007 and August 2009.
• Surveys also included out-of-hospital settings, such as general health examinations.

Main Results:

• CAM use was reported by 7.1% of pediatric patients and 19.2% of adult patients.
• Adults cited safety, convenience, and cost as primary reasons for CAM use, with 36.2% perceiving effectiveness.
• High expenditure on CAM correlated with increased dissatisfaction and anxiety regarding hospital-based treatments, indicating inconsistent practice influenced by patient background.

Conclusions:

• Patients utilizing CAM often find hospital treatments inadequate and express concerns about side effects.
• Enhanced dissemination of evidence-based treatment guidelines is crucial.
• Strengthening communication between healthcare providers and patients is recommended to address CAM use and treatment expectations.