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Unlocking relief Harnessing the power of FDC therapy in AR management
Unlocking relief: Harnessing the power of FDC therapy in AR management
This is a summary of an online CPD article that is available on Medical Academic. The link to access the article and the quiz is available at the end.
Allergic rhinitis (AR), commonly known as hay fever, affects a significant portion of the population, causing nasal and ocular symptoms upon exposure to allergens. This article explores the prevalence, risk factors, and management strategies for AR, emphasising the efficacy of fixed-dose combination (FDC) therapy. AR, triggered by allergens like pollen and dust mites, affects 10% to 40% of the population, with around 80% developing symptoms <20-years. It significantly impacts quality of life (QoL), leading to cognitive dysfunction and sleep disturbances.
Risk factors include family history, gender, and high serum IgE levels. Notably, breastfeeding and early pet exposure may have protective effects against AR.
AR arises from an immune-mediated reaction of the nasal mucosa to allergens, involving mast cell activation and subsequent inflammation. Clinical diagnosis involves a detailed history, examination, and laboratory tests confirming allergic sensitisation.
Local guidelines recommend intranasal corticosteroids (INCS) as first-line treatment, with fixed-dose combination therapy (INCS/INAH) considered for moderate-to-severe cases.
Combination therapy offers tailored approaches to symptom relief, with INCS effectively managing all nasal symptoms associated with AR. However, it is noted that newer-generation oral antihistamines (AH) primarily address symptoms like pruritus and sneezing, with minimal effects on nasal congestion compared to INCS.
Conclusion
FDC therapy, particularly combinations of INCS and INAH, offers promising options to alleviate symptoms and improve patient outcomes. By prioritising patient needs and considering the efficacy and safety profiles of different therapies, healthcare providers can optimise AR management and enhance patients’ QoL.
To access the article and quiz, go to https://www.medicalacademic.co.za/courses/ or scan the QR code. SF
