Treatment of allergic rhinitis: does it make a difference in sleep and quality of life?

OBJECTIVE

Allergic rhinitis (AR) and allergic conjunctivitis (AC) are common atopic conditions of childhood that significantly impair sleep quality and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Although effective treatment strategies exist, their broader impact on sleep and daily functioning has remained underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of AR and/or AC treatment on sleep quality and HRQoL in children using validated, parent-reported instruments.

METHODS

In this prospective observational cohort study, 98 children aged 6-13 years with AR and/or AC were treated according to standard guidelines. Sleep quality and HRQoL were assessed pre- and post-treatment using the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ) and the Pediatric Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (PRQLQ), respectively. Changes in scores were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test.

RESULTS

Post-treatment evaluations demonstrated a significant reduction in total CSHQ scores (median: 56-43, P < 0.001), indicating improved sleep quality. Similarly, total PRQLQ scores decreased significantly (median: 3.47-2.28, P < 0.001), reflecting enhanced QoL. Improvements were observed in most subdomains, including nose and eye symptoms, activity limitations, and other symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

A 4-week standard treatment regimen for AR and/or AC led to significant improvements in sleep quality and HRQoL in children. These findings highlight the importance of early and appropriate management of allergic conditions to enhance both physical and functional well-being in pediatric patients.