ROLE OF NASAL IRRIGATION BY USING ALKALINE NASAL SOLUTION IN ALLERGIC RHINITIS TREATMENT AS AN ADJUNCT THERAPY
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Date
2012
Authors
CHENTHILNATHAN, PERIASAMY
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Pusat Pengajian Sains Perubatan Universiti Sains Malaysia
Abstract
Introduction
Nasal irrigation is an important component in the management of upper respiratory tract
diseases. Alkaline nasal solution plays vital role as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of
allergic rhinitis. Unfortunately, there still exits lack of evidence and practice regarding usage
of alkaline solution as nasal irrigation in allergic rhinitis treatment.
Objectives
The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness and role of nasal irrigation by using
alkaline solution with any changes in nasal or non-nasal symptoms in the treatment of allergic
rhinitis as an adjunct therapy. Besides, this study also analysed for any side effects of alkaline
nasal solution following its usage for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.
Methodology and Study Design
This was a prospective, randomized control trial in which a total of 64 patients recruited from
HUSM and divided into Test group (n=32) and Control group (n=32). These patients
confirmed suffering from allergic rhinitis with the presence of positive skin prick test. Then
these patients of both groups, their symptoms will be assessed with a standardized and
validated symptom score questionnaire pre and post study. Their symptoms were evaluated
based on nasal and non - nasal symptoms. The test group had been given alkaline nasal
solution as nasal irrigation for the period of 6 weeks along with regular nasal spray and
antihistamine. Furthermore, the control group was given only the nasal spray and
antihistamine for 6 week duration. During this study period, assessments of any adverse
effect by usage of alkaline nasal solution as nasal irrigation in the Test group subjects were
also analyzed.
Results
This study shows most of the sample subjects were middle age (21-40 years) and active
earning group in which their daily routine and quality of life are strongly related to their
allergic rhinitis symptom control. Most of the subjects were grouped into moderate/severe
persistent allergic rhinitis. Furthermore majority of subjects in this study were allergic to
house dust mite. This study shows statistically significant nasal symptom improvement in
nasal discharge, nasal itchiness and sneezing among the Test group. There were no side
effects noted in the usage of alkaline nasal solution during the study. Therefore alkaline nasal
solution as nasal irrigation in the treatment of allergic rhinitis is beneficial.
Conclusion
Nasal irrigation is a simple mode of treatment that relieves the symptoms with no
documented adverse effects. Alkaline nasal solution as nasal irrigation has better effect on
patient’s nasal symptoms and improves quality of life. Nasal irrigation techniques are simple
and easily taught in primary health care. Moreover alkaline nasal solution is an important
component in the management of allergic rhinitis as an adjunct therapy.
Description
Keywords
Otorhinolaryngology , Head and Neck Surgery