The COVID-19 Pandemic Had a Positive Impact on Patients with Allergic Rhinitis

Abstract

Introduction: Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting all age group and it is characterized by sneezing, nasal congestion, and rhinorrhea. In some cases, conjunctivitis also occurs up on expose to a variety of irritants like pollen, duct, perfumes, and weather changes. Aim: This study evaluates the impact of COVID19 pandemic and quarantine on patients with allergic rhinitis sign and symptoms. Results: The study was conducted in the Kingdome of Saudi Arabia and 740 participants returned the online questionnaire. of those, 596 (80.5%) identified dust and weather changes as the main irritants to their symptoms, and 440 (59.5%) experienced sneezing as the main symptoms before COVID-19 pandemic. Only 89 (12%) reported symptoms relief by 90-100% during lockdowns and curfew periods. There was a significantly lower rate of medication use during the pandemic (28.32%) compared to the time before the pandemic (50.93%). During the COVID-19 pandemic, of the respondents 271 (36%) reported no improvement, 179 (23.8%) had mild improvements, 131 (17.4%) reported a moderate improvement, and 171 (22.7%) reported a significant improvement. Conclusion: The study showed that 40% of the participants had moderate to significant symptomatic relief during the periods of lockdowns and curfew of the COVID-19.