Features of sensitization and quality of life of patients with allergic rhinitis: A study in North Viet Nam

Abstract

Introduction: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a critical disease related to otorhinolaryngology, allergology, and pediatrics worldwide due to its high prevalence and treatment costs. This article considers its prevalence based on regional characteristics of sensitization and the quality of patients with allergic rhinitis in North Vietnam.

Methods: The study was conducted from June to September 2018 by the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Thai Nguyen Central General Hospital, Vietnam. A total of 158 patients with symptoms of chronic rhinitis, aged 5–70 years, were examined. All patients with allergic rhinitis were subjected to standard, specific allergological tests, such as skin scarification tests, the determination of specific IgE in the blood, and statistics according to the NOSE scale. All the patients were also examined by otolaryngologists.

Results: Among the 158 patients identified with chronic year-round rhinitis, 64 patients were diagnosed with allergic rhinitis. The sensitization to house dust mites and fungi was high. A reduction in quality of life was observed in 70 patients (31%).

Conclusion: Allergic rhinitis can adversely affect every aspect of a patient's life, including sleep quality, mood, and daily activities. Sensitization of patients with allergic rhinitis in Northern Vietnam is similar to those in Asia, with allergy to house dust mites being common.