The reduction of rhinitis symptoms by nasal filters during natural exposure to ragweed and grass pollen.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Prototype nasal filters were developed to collect inhaled pollen. This study evaluated the efficacy of the filters for prevention of rhinitis symptoms during acute outdoor pollen exposure.

METHODS:

A randomized double-blind design was used. Subjects (n=46) with a history of autumn exacerbation of rhinitis and positive skin test to ragweed, Bermuda and/or Bahia grass wore either active or placebo nasal filters for 2 h in autumn in a park containing these species. Major and Total Symptoms scores were recorded at 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 min.

RESULTS:

Subjects wearing active nasal filters had significantly reduced scores, at all time-points compared with placebo group (all P <0.05). Of 14 individual symptoms measured, seven were significantly reduced (number of sneezes, runny nose, itchy nose, sniffles, itchy throat; itchy eyes and watery eyes) and another three showed a trend towards lower severity. The nasal filters also enabled the resolution of existing symptoms. Maximal difference in symptoms was seen immediately after subjects had spent 20 min sitting beside a large patch of ragweed.

CONCLUSION:

This is the first clinical trial of a nasal filter. The results suggest it has potential for enhancing rhinitis management during acute allergen exposure.

• Authors: T J O'Meara, J K Sercombe, G Morgan, H K Reddel, W Xuan, E R Tovey
• Journal: Allergy (Allergy) Vol. 60 Issue 4 Pg. 529-32 (Apr 2005) ISSN: 0105-4538 [Print] Denmark
• PMID: 15727589 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Aged
• Ambrosia
• Double-Blind Method
• Environmental Exposure
• Equipment Design
• Female
• Filtration (instrumentation)
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Nasal Cavity
• Patient Acceptance of Health Care
• Poaceae
• Pollen
• Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal (physiopathology, prevention & control)
• Severity of Illness Index