Comparative Analysis of Acute Effects of Different Aerobic Exercises on Clinical Symptoms and Cytokine Levels in Patients with Allergic Rhinitis: A Randomized Crossover Study

Introduction: Aerobic exercise has been shown to improve allergic symptoms. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of various moderate-intensity aerobic exercises on clinical symptoms and cytokines. Methods: Fifteen allergic rhinitis patients aged between 18 and 35 years were randomly assigned to complete three experimental sessions of aerobic exercise: running, cycling, and swimming. Physiological, symptoms, nasal blood flow (NBF), peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF), and cytokines variables were examined pre- and post-exercise. Statistical analyses included the Two-way ANOVA and Linear Mixed Model (LMM), with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The results showed that all exercise protocols significantly reduced total rhinitis symptoms and itching scores compared to pre-test levels. Running notably decreased nasal congestion, sneezing, and rhinorrhea scores, while cycling and swimming each decreased specific symptoms. Both running and cycling exercises significantly altered NBF and PNIF. Furthermore, running exercise significantly reduced levels of various cytokines, whereas cycling and swimming exercises had more limited effects on cytokine levels. Conclusion: Moderate-intensity aerobic exercises, including running, cycling, and swimming, effectively alleviate rhinitis symptoms. Running stands out as particularly effective in reducing all symptoms and lowering pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Thus, moderate running appears to be a suitable aerobic exercise option for individuals with allergic rhinitis.