Correlation of Allergic Rhinitis and Hypothyroidism in Patients in a Rural Tertiary Care Hospital A Cross-Sectional Study (Code-T0156)

Introduction: Allergic rhinitis (AR), a common inflammatory nasal disorder, and hypothyroidism, a prevalent endocrine condition, often coexist, impacting patient quality of life. The mechanisms linking these conditions are hypothesized to involve thyroid hormone effects on immune function, but evidence remains inconclusive.

Aims and Objectives:

1. To Estimate the prevalence of nasal symptomatology in Hypothyroid patients
2. To Co relate the severity of allergic rhinitis with levels of thyroid hormones.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients aged 15–50 years with hypothyroidism presenting with AR symptoms to the ENT Department of Adichunchanagiri Hospital. Participants were evaluated through clinical examination, thyroid profiles, and symptom assessment using the NOSE questionnaire. Follow-up evaluations at one and three months assessed symptom improvement post-treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with significance set at p<0.05.

Results: Preliminary findings suggest a significant association between AR severity and hypothyroid status. Thyroid hormone imbalances correlated with worsened nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea, and mucosal edema. Symptom scores and thyroid profiles improved with appropriate management, indicating potential interdependence between thyroid function and AR symptoms.

Conclusion: The study highlights a clinically relevant link between AR and hypothyroidism, emphasizing the need for integrated management of these conditions in rural healthcare settings. Further research is warranted to explore underlying mechanisms and therapeutic strategies.

Keywords: Allergic rhinitis, hypothyroidism, thyroid hormones, nasal symptoms, cross-sectional study, rural healthcare