Via practica 3/2006

ALLERGIC RHINITIS

Incidence of allergic rhinitis increased during 20th century 10 fold to actual 25 % population of developed countries. Despite rhinitis does not shorten the life; it significantly influences the quality of life. Allergy is the main cause of non-infectious rhinitis from childhood and to the 25th year of age; with increasing age it is detectable only in 50 % cases of chronic rhinitis. The aim of this review article is focus on non-infectious forms of rhinitis with accent on modern management of allergic rhinitis. The basic strategy in both allergic and nonallergic rhinitis is similar; intranasal corticosteroids and modern H1-antihistamines (both oral and topical) are used as first line drugs. If the causal allergen is detected it is necessary to consider allergen immunotherapy. With combined approach best results are achieved (pharmacotherapy, immunotherapy, avoidance of starters and inducers).

Keywords: allergic rhinitis, non-allergic rhinitis, management.