Role of Vitamin D Supplementation in Allergic Rhinitis

Background: Allergic Rhinitis (AR) is one of the inflammatory diseases of the nasal mucosa, caused by immunoglobulin E (IgE) after allergens exposure, Severity measurement of the AR symptoms can be conducted subjectively by counting the total nasal symptom score (TNSS) and objectively by counting the serum IgE levels. Vitamin D (VD) plays a significant part in inborn and adaptive immunity; however, this is not completely understood. It is reported that over 900 genes are regulated by VD. The aim of this study is to assess the role of VD supplementation in AR.

Methods: This prospective randomized controlled study was carried out on 90 patients Test group (n = 45): received standard medications and supplementation of oral VD3 (cholecalciferol; 1000 IU) for 3 months. Control group (n = 45): received standard medications without supplementation of oral VD3.

Results: Comparison between both groups showed insignificant difference between both groups in VD level at the start of the study. According to TNSS in test group, there was significant improvement after 3 months compared to before the study. According to TNSS in control group, there was significant improvement after 3 months than before the study. There was significant improvement in test group than control group as regard to TNSS after 3 months.

Conclusions: There was highly significant reduction in the TNSS after VD supplementation. Thus, VD supplementation alters the course of AR towards clinical improvement.