Olfactory dysfunction and quality of life changes in allergic rhinitis: impact of medical therapy: A prospective observational study

• Author Details:   
• Ramasridhar Madabhushi
• C. Imlirenla Longchar ^*
• Ch Mounika
• Karthik Dandaboina

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Background: Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common and undertreated diseases worldwide and persists throughout life. It is prevalent among 0.8 to 38.7% of the global population and many patients with allergic rhinitis have developed olfactory dysfunction. This study aimed to assess the olfactory function and quality of life changes before and after medical therapy.

Aim: A clinical assessment of olfactory function and quality of life changes in patients with allergic rhinitis before and after medical therapy.

Objectives: 1.To assess the prevalence of olfactory dysfunction in patients diagnosed with allergic rhinitis 2.To evaluate associated quality–of–life changes in patients diagnosed with allergic rhinitis.

Materials and Methods: A prospective observational  study was conducted  to assess the  olfactory disfunction and  the quality of life changes in the patient with allergic rhinitis before and after medical therapy over a period of 18 months(Jan 2013–Jul 2024) .A total of 300  patients diagnosed with Allergic rhinitis were taken into the study and were  categorized based on ARIA(Allergic rhinitis and its impact on Asthma) classification (mild intermittent, mild persistent, moderate-to-severe intermittent, moderate-to severe persistent). Olfactory function was assessed using butanol threshold testing, and Quality of life was evaluated with the Rhino conjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) before and after 12 weeks of pharmacotherapy.

Results: Olfactory dysfunction was prevalent in 31.3% of patients (23.3% hyposmia, 8% anosmia), with sneezing (81.7%) as the primary symptom. Age group 31-40 (32.7%) and males (67%) were most affected. Post-treatment olfactory function improved significantly across all AR (allergic Rhinitis) categories (p < 0>

Conclusion: AR is associated with significant olfactory dysfunction, which, along with Quality of life, improves markedly with 12 weeks of medical therapy.

Keywords: Allergic rhinitis, Hyposmia, Quality of life.