Allergic Rhinitis-Induced Anxiety and Depression: An Autobiographical Case Report

Abstract

Allergic rhinitis (AR) formerly perceived to be a nuisance disease is of global health concern now, causing significant economic and social burden worldwide. It is a common inflammatory condition of the nasal mucosa characterized by four cardinal symptoms: nasal pruritus, sneezing, rhinorrhea, and nasal congestion. Poorly controlled AR can also lead to impairment in sleep and a decrease in school/work performance, thereby affecting the quality of life. In addition, AR can produce serious mental and psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety. Yoga can be used as an alternative therapy to treat AR as it has been proven to have beneficial effects in alleviating the symptoms of AR and can also have an overall relaxing effect on the body and mind. The aim of this case report is to share my first-hand experience of enduring endless suffering due to AR because of my negligent behavior. My chronic symptoms that did not resolve on medication led me to anxiety and depression, and I finally resorted to yoga and meditation to battle the disorder.

Keywords: anxiety; comorbidities; congestion; depression; global health concern; pruritis; quality of life; rhinorrhea; sneezing; yoga.