Prevalence of different types of sleep disorders in children with allergic rhinitis Print

Allergic rhinitis affects 40% of general population and has an increasing prevalence. Sleep disturbance is an important problem in individuals with allergic rhinitis. Recent studies have shown that 68% of cases with perennial rhinitis and 48% with seasonal rhinitis have impaired sleep. In this case-report study, 33 children with allergic rhinitis aging 6-18 years entered the study. Thirty five children without allergic rhinitis entered the study as control group. A questionnaire containing demographic data and types of sleep disorders filled for every child. Except respiratory disorder, there was no other significant difference between groups in any sleep disorder. Sixteen children (48.5%) in case group has respiratory disorder while none of control children were involved (P=0.0). Nasal congestion is the main factor involved in sleep impairment in children with allergic rhinitis. Therefore, it seems that it is the first symptom to be treated.