Allergic rhinitis and frequency of associated ocular symptoms

Objective. Allergic rhinitis is defined as an inflammation of the lining of the nose and is characterized by nasal symptoms. Typical symptoms of allergic rhinitis may be followed with ocular symptoms particular in patients allergic to outdoor allergens. The aim of this study is to investigate socio-demographic, clinical characteristics and frequency of ocular symptoms comorbidity in allergic rhinitis. Methods. Study population included the patients of Otorhinolaryngology Department of Health Centre Kragujevac. We observed 595 (230 male and 365 female) patients with allergic rhinitis from March 1, 2010 - March 1, 2011, older than 3 years. The diagnosis was based on anamnesis, clinical otorhinolaryngology, ophthalmologic examination and allergy tests. Statistical analysis included the method of descriptive statistics. Results. Among all patients 61.2% (364/595) had perennial and 38.8% (231/595) had seasonal allergic rhinitis. Ocular symptoms at patient suffering from seasonal rhinitis was recorded in 27.3% (63/231) and 35.5% (92/259) in patients allergic to outdoor allergens. The prevalence of allergic rhinitis has increased in recent decades and as it is known from literature; 20-60% allergic rhinitis sufferers will experience ocular symptoms in different geographic areas. In our study ocular symptoms were recorded in 27.3-35.5% patients with allergic rhinitis. Conclusion. Associated ocular symptoms are common in patients with allergic rhinitis.