Rhinitis and sinusitis in the older population and its association with elderly asthma

Abstract

Abstract OBJECTIVES. As a person ages, the mucosal epithelium degenerates over time and the elderly often have complications due to dehydration. Nasal airflow decreases and nasal airway resistance increases. In this review, we discuss the relationship of rhinitis, sinusitis and asthma in elderly patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS. The literature survey was performed using the search engines PubMed, Google, Proquest Central, and EBSCO at the Kırıkkale University Library. RESULTS. With the aging process, allergic rhinitis decreases, whereas non-allergic rhinitis, such as drug-induced rhinitis can be observed more. Atrophic rhinitis is often seen in the elderly. Patients with geriatric rhinitis typically complain of constant sinus drainage problems, which may cause sinusitis. In addition, asthma prevalence has also been shown to be higher in elderly patients. Concurrent upper (rhinitis) and lower (asthma) respiratory tract symptoms are defined as Combined Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Syndrome. CONCLUSION. Rhinitis and asthma as well as sinusitis and asthma may be present in elderly patients. The incidence of allergic rhinitis has been shown to decrease with age. To achieve good results from treatment, the concurrent rhinitis and asthma as well as sinusitis and asthma should be kept in mind in elderly patients.