A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN THE EFFICACY OF INTRANASAL STEROID VERSUS A COMBINATION OF INTRANASAL STEROID WITH NASAL SALINE IRRIGATION IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ALLERGIC RHINITIS IN CHILDREN.

BACKGROUND: Allergic rhinitis is a prevalent condition in children that significantly affects quality of life. Intranasal steroids are a commonly prescribed treatment, but their efficacy can be limited in some cases. This study evaluates whether the combination of intranasal steroid with nasal saline irrigation provides superior symptom relief compared to intranasal steroid alone. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted at RVM Hospital, involving 80 pediatric patients diagnosed with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis. Participants were divided into two groups: Group A (intranasal steroid therapy) and Group B (intranasal steroid therapy combined with nasal saline irrigation). Symptom severity was assessed using the Treatment total nasal symptom (TNSS) at baseline and one-month follow-up. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the efficacy of the two treatments. RESULTS: Post treatment TNSS were significantly lower in Group B (3.65 ± 1.001) compared to Group A (5.95 ± 1.358, p < 0.001), demonstrating greater symptom improvement in the combination therapy group. Significant reductions were observed in nasal congestion (p < 0.001), sneezing (p < 0.001), runny nose (p = 0.002), and sleep disturbances (p < 0.001) in Group B compared to Group A. These findings suggest that nasal saline irrigation enhances the effectiveness of intranasal steroids. CONCLUSION: The combination of intranasal steroid and nasal saline irrigation provides superior symptom control compared to intranasal steroid alone, making it a reliable treatment option for pediatric allergic rhinitis. Future research should focus on long-term adherence and effectiveness across broader populations.