Clinical Association of Allergic Rhinitis with Sleep Impairment in Pediatric and Adult Patients in Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory condition affecting both pediatric and adult populations, significantly impairing sleep quality through nasal obstruction, airway resistance, and systemic inflammation. Sleep disturbances such as insomnia, hypersomnia, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) exacerbate morbidity, reduce quality of life, and increase the risk of cardiometabolic and neurocognitive complications. Despite substantial global research, data from South Asia remain limited, necessitating population-specific evidence. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, patterns, and predictors of sleep disturbances among pediatric and adult patients with AR in Pakistan, and to examine associations between AR severity, demographic factors, and sleep-disordered breathing. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 156 patients with clinically diagnosed AR. Demographic, clinical, and sleep-related data were collected using validated questionnaires, and statistical analyses included chi-square tests, t-tests, and logistic regression to identify significant predictors. Results: Insomnia (59%) and hypersomnia (38.6%) were highly prevalent, while OSA occurred in 2.4% of cases. Moderate–severe AR, male sex, older age, and excessive daytime sleepiness were significant predictors of snoring and sleep-disordered breathing. Conclusion: Sleep disturbances are common and clinically significant comorbidities in AR, highlighting the need for integrated allergy and sleep assessment and management strategies. Keywords: Allergic rhinitis, sleep disorders, insomnia, hypersomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, airway inflammation, Pakistan.