Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms and Impact Assessment (ARSIA) of Public Community in Saudi Arabia: A National Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common inflammatory condition of the nasal mucosa in Saudi Arabia, triggered by various allergens. It significantly impacts daily life, affecting sleep quality, social interactions, and productivity. Despite its prevalence, AR is often underdiagnosed and undertreated in the region. Methods This national cross-sectional study was conducted in February 2024 using an online survey distributed via social media and Google Forms. Participants were Saudi Arabian residents with self-reported AR. The allergic rhinitis symptoms and impact assessment (ARSIA) questionnaire was used and translated into Arabic. A total of 262 participants completed the survey. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to explore relationships between variables. Results The study included 262 participants, with a nearly balanced gender representation of 133 (50.8%) females and 129 (49.2%) males and a predominant age group of >30 years with 140 individuals (53.4%). The majority were Saudi nationals, 244 (93.1%). Educational levels varied, with undergraduates being the largest group of 132 (50.4%) respondents. Concerning smoking, 189 respondents (72.1%) never smoked. A high prevalence of allergen sensitivity was noted, with smoke (98.1%) and medications (99.2%) being the most common triggers. Medication use varied, with 114 (43.5%) participants not using any medication. Continuous symptoms were reported by 140 (53.4%) of participants, and 161 participants (61.5%) classified their symptoms as moderate to severe. Significant differences were observed based on nationality, education level, and social status concerning symptom severity. Conclusion AR significantly impacts the Saudi Arabian population, with high allergen sensitivity and varied medication use. The study underscores the need for improved diagnosis and treatment strategies, considering the unique environmental and demographic factors in the region. Further research is necessary to develop effective interventions tailored to the local context.