Allergic rhinitis contributes to sexual dysfunction

Allergic rhinitis contributes to sexual dysfunction

Nasal symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR) seem to contribute to sexual dysfunction, according to a case-control study of 1,034 patients and 422 healthy controls. 

Total Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores were significantly lower in AR patients than controls. Individual scores for subjective arousal, orgasmic function and intercourse satisfaction were also significantly lower in women with AR. 

Among male AR patients, total International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores were lower than in controls, with significant reductions in erectile function, sexual desire and overall satisfaction.

Allergic rhinitis had a pervasive effect on sexual function. In female AR patients, nasal obstruction negatively correlated with sexual desire, subjective arousal, orgasmic function, intercourse satisfaction and FSFI scores. 

Dysosmia (distorted smell) negatively correlated with subjective arousal, orgasmic function, intercourse satisfaction and total FSFI scores. AR severity negatively correlated with subjective arousal, orgasmic function, intercourse satisfaction and total FSFI scores. 

In males, nasal obstruction negatively correlated with erectile and orgasmic function, sexual desire and total IIEF scores. Rhinorrhoea negatively correlated with overall satisfaction and total IIEF scores. Dysosmia negatively correlated with erectile and orgasmic function, sexual desire and total IIEF scores. 

AR severity negatively correlated with erectile and orgasmic function, sexual desire and total IIEF scores. 

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