Effects of seasonal allergic rhinitis on driving performance, memory functioning, psychomotor performance and quality of life

Background: Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) has shown to affect quality of life and impair cognitive functioning. Objective: The objective of this study was to compare driving ability, memory, and psychomotor performance during grass pollen season with winter season in untreated patients with SAR. Methods: Patients with SAR were trained and tested during the grass pollen season (summer) and winter. An on-the-road driving test during normal traffic conditions was performed. Primary parameter is the Standard Deviation of Lateral Position (SDLP), i.e. the weaving of the car. In addition, a word learning test and continuous performance test were performed and quality of life was assessed. Patients were included if in winter the Total 5-Symptoms Score (T5SS) was < 3 and in summer the T5SS was > 3. Results: 70 patients were recruited of which 22 started the study. Fifteen patients completed the study of which 11 met the inclusion criteria. These 11 patients had a mean T5SS of 6.8 in summer and 0.6 in winter. Patient reported a significantly reduced overall quality of life during grass pollen season (p<0.0001). No significant effects were found on the driving test, except a significant (but not relevant) decrease in mean speed during the grass pollen season (p<0.035). No significant effects were found on the word learning test and continuous performance test. Conclusion: Our data suggest that moderate SAR symptoms do not impair driving ability, memory functioning and continuous performance. However, given the small sample size future studies should confirm these findings.