CAN. J. ALLERGY CLIN. IMMUNOL. 4/5 (1999) 238-243
Abstract
Rhinitis and asthma are common chronic conditions which frequently co- exist. Many chest physicians ignore the upper respiratory tract, yet rhinitis can be both a risk factor for subsequent asthma and an exacerbating factor for current asthma. The treatment of rhinitis with topical corticosteroids is associated with a reduction in bronchial hyperreactivity and asthma symptoms. The treatment of rhinitis is reviewed and topical corticosteroids emerge as the treatment of choice at present for most patients. Long-term appropriate therapy with topical plus inhaled corticosteroids in patients with rhinitis and asthma is difficult to achieve both because of cost and compliance issues. The present potential for oral treatment affecting both conditions is explored, results to date suggest that leukotriene receptor antagonists are not a substitute for topical corticosteroids but an addition to them. Research is needed into the possible prevention of asthma by early diagnosis and treatment of allergic rhinitis, including allergen avoidance and immunotherapy.