Medical and economic dimensions linking allergic rhinitis and asthma.

Allergic rhinitis and asthma are two of the most common chronic conditions affecting the population. There has been a growing understanding of the link between these disorders as they commonly occur in the same individual, of their relationship with allergies, and of the total economic impact in both direct and indirect costs associated with these maladies. For physicians caring for these patients, an understanding of the relationship of these conditions and the magnitude of health care costs is paramount in proper treatment.