The mini-rhino-conjunctivitis quality of life (qol) questionnaire (mrqlq) — self administered

Abstract

Objective

Our aim was to administer the MRQLQ Questionnaire in Indian adults with allergic rhino-conjunctivitis (ARc).

Criteria for inclusion in the study

Adults with chronic ARc, with sufficiently troublesome current symptoms, attending The Allergy Clinic of The Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai, during March–August 2006 were selected.

Results

The five highest PS were seen with sneezing 290, irritation 238, running nose 228, stuffy nose 220, anxiety 203 and interrupted working 203. The 5 lowest PS were seen with disturbed sleep 83, dry throat 98, affected walking for 1/2 kilometre 98, do not sleep deeply 103 and phlegm 105.

Discussion

The five highest PS were due to symptoms of rhinitis, general irritation, anxiety & interruption of work. Thus rhinitis itself affects QOL. The 5 least PS were mainly sleep-related.

Conclusion

We have applied the MRQLQ on Indian patients with ARc. We could obtain a product score for every item in it, on the basis of which we could classify the degree of its effect on his QOL. PS was highest in rhinitis-related symptoms. 2 Emotions related and 1 Role limitation item gave moderate PS, while all PS in eye related, Physical functioning, Social functioning, Sleep-related & Other Symptoms items were in the mild range. Larger data sample is needed to validate and show its discriminatory power.