COMPARISON OF BRONCHIAL RESPONSIVENESS TO EXERCISE BETWEEN FIRST DEGREE RELATIVES OF ASTHMATICS AND PATIENTS OF ALLERGIC RHINITIS WITH THAT OF HEALTHY CONTROLS
Author: SANDHYA.H.P. , GIRIJA. B , SHIVKUMAR VEERAIAH
Category: Physiology
Abstract:
There is a higher risk of bronchial lability in genetically predisposed individuals like asymptomatic first degree relatives of asthmatics and in allergic rhinitis patients. Hence a study was undertaken to investigate the effect of exercise on the bronchial responsiveness, in asymptomatic first degree relatives of asthmatics (group I), patients of allergic rhinitis (group II) and in healthy controls (group III); so that an early identification of bronchial hyperresponsivenes (BHR) in these individuals can help them make necessary lifestyle and environmental alterations for preventing or delaying its onset. Study involved 102 subjects & they were divided into 3 groups. PFT was recorded in all 3 groups before and at 0,5,10 and 20 mins after two step exercise, using computerized spirometer RS232C. The results were compiled and statistically analysed for significant differences. There was a significant fall in FEV1 (p<0.048) and PEFR (p<0.013) after exercise in group I and a significant fall in FEV1(p<0.006) and PEFR(p<0.004) was also noted in group II after the exercise. The incidence of Exercise Induced Bronchospasm (EIB) was more in group II (0.031). Hence it was concluded that BHR is present in group I and is a significant problem of group II. Keywords: Asymptomatic first degree relatives, Allergic rhinitis patients, Bronchial hyperresponsiveness, Exercise induced bronchospasm, Pulmonary function tests, Twostep exercise.