Allergic Rhinitis as a Preasthmatic Condition

Overview

The authors analyzed the records of 53 patients where in 1985-1999 occupational diseases clinics in Plzeň and Olomoucreported allergic rhinitis - in 28 only rhinitis was involved, 25 developed later bronchial asthma. Patients with rhinitis complicatedby bronchial asthma had a higher mean age and longer period of exposure. Rhinitis complicated by asthma was found morefrequently in bakers, in patients with positive tests for mites and in patients with a major number of positive reactions duringtesting. Within the framework of prevention the authors emphasize above all responsibl e allocation of work to patients withallergoses and early re-allotment of patients with rhinitis to work not involving exposure to proved allergens.

Key words:
allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, allergy, farmers, workers in food industry