Managing allergic rhinitis in people with respiratory conditions

Allergic rhinitis is common in people with asthma. The link with COPD is less well known. Jane Scullion and Steve Holmes provide an overview of the condition and how it can be diagnosed and treated in people with respiratory conditions Allergic rhinitis—a reaction to airborne allergens—is very common, affecting 10–15% of children and 26% of adults in the UK. Symptoms include sneezing, rhinorrhoea, and nasal obstruction, often accompanied by itching of the eyes, nose, and palate. Allergic rhinitis is well-known to co-exist with asthma. The link between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and allergic rhinitis is less well-known. Studies have shown the presence of allergic rhinitis increases the risk of asthma attacks and emergency hospitalisation in patients with asthma. The risks for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are less well researched. It is important to consider rhinitis in people with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and, as far as possible, provide a robust diagnosis which will inform targeted treatment for our patients' symptoms. There are several medications that can be used to treat allergic rhinitis and improve quality of life for patients.