6 EVALUATION OF EFFICACY OF MANAGEMENT PROTOCOL IN ALLERGIC RHINITIS

Background: Allergic rhinitis represents a global health issue affecting between 10 % to 25 % of the world population, with increasing prevalence, resulting in a significant impact on quality of life, multiple comorbidities and the considerable socio-economic burden. Majority of the patients are younger than 30 years and it may be inherited. Symptoms typically occur as a result of exposure to dust, dander or certain seasonal pollen. Lack of standardized management protocol is one of the major factors responsible for poor control of this condition. This study was designed to evaluate the patients suffering with allergic rhinitis and manage them with a protocol based on the pathogenesis of the condition. Method: This prospective study was conducted in the Department of Ear, Nose & Throat and Head & Neck Surgery, Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, over a period of two years (2005 – 2006), to assess the efficacy of a standard protocol of treatment developed and followed in the department. 1167 patients, clinically diagnosed as suffering with allergic rhinitis, were evaluated and managed. Age ranged from 08 months to 64 years. All the patients were prescribed medical treatment, divided into initial phase of 10 days to two weeks duration followed by a maintenance phase, and a regular follow-up schedule was maintained upto two years. Results: 634 (54.32%) patients were male and 533 (45.67%) were female. Age range