23. Epidemiology and prevention of allergic rhinitis
- Epidemiology
- Prevalence 10 – 30% of industrialized countries
- Most frequent disease among children and teens
- 80% of cases 0 – 20 years
- Prevalence increasing, especially in urban areas
- Forms
- Seasonal – outdoor allergens
- Perennial – indoor allergens
- Etiology
- Second hand smoke
- Exposure to allergens
- Atopy or family history of it
- Male gender
- Urbanization
- Prevention
- Breastfeeding
- Elimination, avoiding allergen
- Avoid dust mites
- Reduce indoor humidity
- Wash bed sheets
- Use bedding encasements
- Medical treatment