Comorbidity of bipolar disorder and allergic rhinitis: current status, mechanisms, and treatment strategies

Bipolar disorder (BD) and allergic rhinitis (AR) are common conditions that can markedly impair patients’ quality of life. Previous epidemiological studies have shown a relatively high comorbidity rate between the two; however, the mechanisms underlying their intrinsic association remain unclear. The underlying mechanism involves the combined effects of immune inflammation, neuroendocrine regulation, sleep disorders and environmental factors. This paper explores the links between BD and AR from three perspectives: epidemiology, mechanisms of comorbidity, and treatment and management strategies, with the aim of improving clinicians’ understanding of this comorbidity and providing a basis for clinical decision-making in diagnosis and treatment.