Association between Allegeric Rhinitis and Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Prospective Observational Study
Keywords:
Allergic Rhinitis, Eustachian Tube Dysfunction, Nasal Obstruction, Middle Ear, Prospective Observational Study.Abstract
Background: Allergic rhinitis is a common chronic inflammatory disorder that may impair Eustachian tube function through persistent mucosal inflammation, leading to middle ear symptoms and reduced quality of life.
Aims: To evaluate the association between allergic rhinitis and Eustachian tube dysfunction and determine the relationship between disease severity and Eustachian tube involvement.
Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of ENT at Sri Chamundeshwari Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Channapatna, over a period of 6 months. A total of 60 patients with clinically diagnosed allergic rhinitis were enrolled. Demographic details, clinical characteristics, severity of allergic rhinitis, and Eustachian tube function were assessed using standard clinical evaluation and appropriate statistical analysis.
Results: Among the 60 patients, 56.7% had Eustachian tube dysfunction. The highest proportion belonged to the 41–50 years age group (30.0%), with males constituting 56.7% of the study population. Moderate-to-severe persistent allergic rhinitis showed the strongest association with Eustachian tube dysfunction (83.3%, p<0.001). Longer disease duration (>3 years) (p=0.003), increasing age (p=0.041), and nasal obstruction (p=0.011) were also significantly associated with Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Conclusion: Eustachian tube dysfunction is a frequent comorbidity in patients with allergic rhinitis and is significantly associated with persistent disease severity, prolonged symptom duration, and nasal obstruction. Early identification and appropriate management of Eustachian tube dysfunction may help prevent middle ear complications and improve clinical outcomes.
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