Determinants of Sexual Dysfunction in Allergic Rhinitis According to the Unpleasant Symptoms Theory: A Comparative Study

Objective: Sexual dysfunction, a key component of adults’ quality of life, is under-studied in allergic rhinitis. This study aimed to compare sexual dysfunction in individuals with and without allergic rhinitis and to examine the effects of physiological, psychological, and situational factors, as conceptualized by the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms. Methods: This descriptive and between-groups comparative study was conducted between September 2020 and September 2021 in the otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic. Data were collected from 249 patients with allergic rhinitis and 235 healthy individuals using validated scales that assess depression, anxiety, fatigue, sleep quality, nasal symptoms, and sexual function. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with sexual dysfunction. Results: Compared to the healthy group, individuals with allergic rhinitis had more sexual dysfunction, sleep problems, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and nasal and non-nasal symptoms (p