Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis and Driving Ability

Study to Investigate the Effects of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis on Over-the-Road Driving Performance and Memory Functioning

On-the-road driving performance of untreated seasonal allergic rhinitis patients during the allergic season (exposed) is compared to driving performance outside the allergic season (in winter, not-exposed).

This study was set-up to examine whether untreated seasonal allergic rhinitis has an effect on driving ability. In addition to the driving tests, patients perform a memory test in the laboratory.

Inclusion Criteria:

• outpatients with seasonal allergic rhinitis
• a valid driver's licence
• written informed consent
• a T5SS score >8 during the allergic season and <3 in winter

Exclusion Criteria:

• use of medication or medical conditions that are known to affect driving ability
• associated ENT disease or asthma