ALLERGIC RHINITIS AS A FACTOR IN THE FORMATION OF BRONCHIAL ASTHMA IN CHILDREN

Abstract

English: Background: The "atopic march" describes the progression of allergic diseases, where allergic rhinitis (AR) is often a precursor to bronchial asthma (BA). Understanding this link in the pediatric population of the Andijan region is crucial for early intervention. Objective: To investigate the role of allergic rhinitis as a risk factor for the development of bronchial asthma in children and to analyze the clinical correlation between the severity of rhinitis and asthma onset. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 150 children aged 5–15 years. Group I (n=75) consisted of children with diagnosed BA and a history of AR, while Group II (n=75) included children with AR only. Clinical history, sensitization profiles (skin prick tests), and spirometry data were analyzed. Results: The study found that 68% of children with asthma had a preceding history of moderate-to-severe persistent AR. Sensitization to house dust mites and seasonal pollen was significantly higher in the asthma group. Uncontrolled AR increased the risk of developing asthma by 3.5 times (OR=3.5; 95% CI: 1.8–6.7). Conclusion: Allergic rhinitis is a significant independent risk factor for the development of bronchial asthma. The severity and duration of untreated rhinitis directly correlate with the early onset of asthma symptoms.