Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Its Impact on Quality of Life of Healthcare Staff at Aseer Central Hospital: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a long-term inflammatory process of the nasal and paranasal sinus mucosa causing nasal obstruction, facial pain or pressure, hyposmia or anosmia, and fatigue. The symptoms of CSR are not life-threatening, but they have been associated with a reduced quality of life (QoL). However, it is unclear from past results whether these symptoms significantly correlate with QoL. This study examines the prevalence, severity, and effects of CRS on the QoL and productivity of healthcare workers (HCWs). Methods: This research was conducted on a cross-section of HCWs drawn from nursing sisters, medical doctors, laboratory technicians, and other HCWs. Symptoms related to CRS were evaluated using the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and the Rhinosinusitis Disability Index (RSDI) questionnaires, and work productivity was evaluated using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire-General Health version (WPAI-GH). Results: According to the study, 53.39% of the HCWs screened had a CRS score. Although the mean SNOT score of the participants was 29.97, severe CRS symptoms were generally observed in nurses’ and laboratory technicians’ job positions. A gender disparity was noted for female patients who had a higher symptom burden than male patients (the mean CRS SNOT-22 severity score for female patients was 32.90 and 23.58 for male patients). The comparison of CRS severity by age revealed that the 41–50 years of age group reported symptoms most often. Conclusion: CRS has a high incidence among HCWs and has a significant impact on both the QoL of the workers and their productivity in the workplace. Women, middle-aged employees, and individuals working in high-stress jobs, including nursing, are more vulnerable to the disease. The results highlight the importance of developing targeted approaches to address individuals with CRS and their associated symptoms in healthcare facilities. Measures such as increasing indoor air quality at the workplace, reducing exposure to allergens, and adopting stress-relieving practices may help mitigate the impact of CRS. Compared to prior literature, the identified rate of CRS is significantly higher in HCWs, highlighting the occupational nature of the risk.