Expert experience in the management of allergic rhinitis in the Middle East region

Abstract

Allergic rhinitis (AR), a common atopic disease, is a global health concern causing a significant burden on healthcare resources and is associated with high incidence in the pediatric population. Pharmacotherapy controls the severity of the disease; however, relapsing symptoms challenge the management of AR. A significant AR burden is witnessed in the Middle East region. However, there is a lack of published data on the epidemiology, diagnosis, current treatment options, and preventive measures for AR in the Middle East. The present study, supported by relevant literature, discusses the expert experiences on the epidemiology, diagnosis, current treatment options, and preventive measures for AR in the Middle East. An advisory board meeting involving nine experts in the field of otolaryngology from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Pakistan was conducted. The experiences of the experts on the epidemiology and diagnosis of AR in the Middle East, including current treatment options, preventive measures, and the management of rhinitis medicamentosa, were combined and supported by a literature review. Based on expert experiences and literature review, Intranasal corticosteroids (INCS) may be considered a more effective treatment option than oral antihistamines. Patients who do not respond within 2-3 weeks of INCS treatment may be prescribed combination therapy with antihistamines and decongestants (limited time and certain cases). These evidence-based expert experiences focusing on the management of AR in the Middle East may provide up-to-date guidance to primary care physicians for the effective management of AR patients in this region.