According to the ARIA classification, allergic rhinitis is categorised as 'persistent' when symptoms are present:
- A Daily throughout the year irrespective of symptom count
- B On more than 3 months in a calendar year
- C On more than 4 days per week for more than 4 consecutive weeks ✓
- D On more than 2 days per week continuously for 6 weeks
Correct answer: C. On more than 4 days per week for more than 4 consecutive weeks
Explanation
ARIA classifies allergic rhinitis along two axes. Duration: intermittent means symptoms fewer than 4 days per week or fewer than 4 consecutive weeks; persistent means symptoms exceed both these thresholds. Severity is graded separately as mild or moderate-severe depending on sleep disturbance, impairment of daily activities, and effect on school or work. Option B reflects the old seasonal-versus-perennial terminology that ARIA replaced.
Reference: Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat (Dhingra), 8th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.