Optimising the management of allergic rhinitis: an Australian perspective.
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is one of the most prevalent medical conditions. It has significant effects on quality of life and can have considerable socioeconomic effects. The traditional classification of perennial and seasonal rhinitis does not distinguish between provoking factors, nor does it indicate the most appropriate treatment. A more useful classification is based on symptoms, which may be intermittent or persistent, and vary widely in severity. The goal of management is to achieve optimal symptom control. Therapeutic options include allergen avoidance, pharmacotherapy and immunotherapy. Antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids (INCS) have become the cornerstones of therapy. A variety of effective treatments are available for consumers to self-select, without the advice of a doctor or pharmacist. INCS are widely recognised as the most effective pharmacotherapy for AR, in both adults and children. The efficacy of various preparations is similar, but those with low systemic bioavailability are preferred for children and for patients who are also receiving inhaled, topical or systemic corticosteroids.
Walls
Ronald S
RS
Department of Immunology and Allergy, Concord Hospital, NSW. wallsr@email.cs.nsw.gov.au
Heddle
Robert J
RJ
Tang
Mimi L K
ML
Basger
Ben J
BJ
Solley
Graham O
GO
Yeo
Guan T
GT
D000293:Adolescent; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000328:Adult; D000486:Allergy and Immunology / Q000458:organization & administration; D001315:Australia; D002648:Child; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003888:Desensitization, Immunologic / Q000379:methods; D006634:Histamine H1 Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D014663:Nasal Decongestants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000592:standards; D012221:Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D006255:Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D006634:Histamine H1 Antagonists; D014663:Nasal Decongestants; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs