Open AccessPregnancy-induced rhinitis
Author(s) -
Nara Orban,
Erin D. Maughan,
N. R. Bleach
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
rhinology (amsterdam. online)/rhinology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.275
H-Index - 57
eISSN - 1996-8604
pISSN - 0300-0729
DOI - 10.4193/rhino12.045
Subject(s) - medicine , etiology , pregnancy , intensive care medicine , scientific evidence , intervention (counseling) , incidence (geometry) , evidence based medicine , pediatrics , alternative medicine , psychiatry , pathology , philosophy , genetics , physics , epistemology , optics , biology
Background: Pregnancy-induced rhinitis (PIR) is often misclassified and under-diagnosed. There is currently no cure or optimum symptomatic treatment. Objective: To summarize current knowledge of PIR and assess evidence supporting treatment options. Type of review: Structured literature search. SEARCH STRATEGY AND EVALUATION METHOD: Review of English-language articles addressing evidence for aetiology, classification, differential diagnosis or treatment options for PIR. Comparisons to management of other types of rhinitis in pregnancy are also considered. Results: Incidence and prevalence of PIR vary widely between studies. Hormonal changes have a presumed aetiological role, although present evidence is scanty. Smoking appears to be the only agreed identifiable risk factor. Distinction between PIR and other types of rhinitis in pregnancy, especially allergic rhinitis, is important as effective treatments differ. Management of PIR focuses on minimal intervention required for symptom relief. Conclusions: Although PIR is temporary, its impact on patients` quality of life can be profound. Advice and conservative treatment provide the mainstay of clinical management. None of the currently available medical options offer an ideal solution. Any potential benefit gained should be balanced against risks to the foetus. Clarifying the definition of this separate category of rhinitis will lead to better recognition, with prompt and appropriate treatment.