ABSTRACT
Objective To observe the effects of application at different acupoints in improving the quality of life in allergic rhinitis patients. Method Seventy-seven patients with allergic rhinitis were randomized into a 12-point application group (39 cases) and a 6-point application group (38 cases), to receive Dong Bing Xia Zhi (treating cold-induced diseases in summer) application during each of the three periods of canicular days at corresponding points, 2 h each time. Rhinitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) was evaluated before and after the treatment, and half a year later. Result After the treatment, the total effective rate was 92.3% in the 12-point application group versus 71.1% in the 6-point application group, and the 12-point application group was significantly better (P<0.05); half a year later, the total effective rate was 87.2% in the 12-point application group versus 63.2% in the 6-point application group, and the 12-point group was significantly better (P<0.05); regarding the RQLQ, the 6-point application group didn't gain marked improvement in sleep quality after the treatment and half a year later (P>0.05), but the 12-point application group showed marked improvement (P<0.05); the rest component scores in RQLQ were significantly improved after the treatment and half a year later compared to those before the treatment in both groups (P<0.05); after the treatment, the 12-point application group was superior to the 6-point application group in comparing the reductionof all component scores and general score except the non-nose/eye symptoms score (P<0.05); half a year later, except the non-nose/eye symptoms and behavior scores, the 12-point application group was superior to the 6-point application group in comparing the reduction of all component scores and general score (P<0.05). Conclusion Dong Bing Xia Zhi acupoint application can effectively improve the quality of life in allergic rhinitis patients, especially with acupoints selected based on holism.