Meanings of nebulizer therapy for the treatment of allergic rhinitis

Abstract

Nebulizer therapy for allergic rhinitis has been considered in approximately 90% of medical otorhinolaryngology institutions. However the meaning of nebulizer therapy for patients with allergic rhinitis in that situation is unclear. We did a survey of patients with perennial allergic rhinitis concerning nebulizer treatment. Many patients seemed to be treating themselves according to the doctor's instruction without realizing the effects of this therapy. In the case of the adhesion of the nasal topical steroid to the nasal cavity, half the number of patients sprayed the region, such as the nasal vestibule or the bottom part of cavity, with inefficient absorption. We consider that many patients use their nasal spray inadequately. Therefore we designed a home treatment study using a portable nebulizer unit during the Japanese cedar pollinosis season. The total nasal symptom score during the season was generally less than 3 and patient's satisfaction was very high. This nebulizer therapy was useful for the treatment of pollinosis. Nebulizer therapy should be revaluated as an effective drug delivery system. Considering the use of topical nasal corticosteroids that are administrated once a day, the meaning of nebulizer therapy will be a controller rather than a reliever.