Aeroallergens, allergic rhinitis, and sedating antihistamines: risk factors for traumatic occupational injury and economic impact.

摘要: Background The U.S. workplace injury burden is significant. Our objective was to assess the particular impact of aeroallergen, allergic rhinitis, and antihistamine exposures side effects on risk traumatic work-related injuries, associated economic impact. Methods This an observational case-control study with 1,223 acute cases that are compared 1,202 chronic back controls. Structured telephone interviews were conducted in 1998 1999 Workers' Compensation applicants injured 1997. Antihistamine use pollen levels measured 2 weeks prior date. Results Sedating elevated (main effect OR: 2.93). A significant increase observed for combined sedating high among subjects physician self-diagnosed rhinitis (OR: 2.41). Direct medical costs this increased estimated at $143 million 2001. Conclusions Workers physician-diagnosed have as a reliance antihistamines do self-medicating nasal allergy sufferers. High along may confer additional risks Medical management “best practices” diagnosed should include avoidance minimize acute, risks. Am. J. Ind. Med. 44:438–446, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.