Comano thermal water inhalations in the treatment of allergic rhinitis: preliminary results.

BACKGROUND Comano thermal water, well known for its activity in the treatment of dermatological diseases, has been successfully employed in the treatment of upper airways disorders. OBJECTIVE The present preliminary study aimed to evaluate whether Comano thermal water may be able to improve nasal symptoms severity in patients with allergic rhinitis (AR). METHODS 30 AR patients were enrolled (mean age 40.9 years; 13 males) and treated with inhalation of Comano thermal water for 15 days. Total symptom score (TSS) and visual analogue scale (VAS) for patient's perception of nasal patency were assessed at baseline, after treatment, and after a 2-week follow-up. RESULTS TSS significantly decreased after treatment as well as VAS significantly increased. The effects were partially long-lasting. CONCLUSION Comano thermal water inhalation as monotherapy for AR was able to relieve nasal symptoms and patient's perception of nasal patency.