1. An allergy is the body's hypersensitivity to substances in the environment. True False
2. Allergic reactions range from mild itching, sneezing or eczema (inflamed, itchy skin), to severe hives, hay fever, wheezing, and shortness of breath. True False
3. People experience allergies more in the spring than in the fall. True False
4. Allergies are believed to have originated millions of years ago as a way for the human body to rid itself of parasites and invading worms. True False
5. Allergic rhinitis, a common symptom of season allergies, is known as asthma. True False
6. A person may be tested for as few as six allergens or as many as 80. True False
7. A major side effect of antihistamines is sleeplessness. True False
8. In allergies, nasal discharge is usually thick and yellow. True False
9. Air filters can help clean out pollens, molds and dust. True False
10. Mattress and pillow covers can provide a barrier between you and the dust mites in your bed, where they live and breed. True False
11. Typical hay fever symptoms are sometimes treated with oral antihistamines, decongestants, and a nasal spray containing cromolyn sodium. True False
12. Antihistamines should not be used by anyone with breathing problems such as emphysema or bronchitis, anyone with glaucoma, by those taking sedatives or tranquilizers, or anyone with difficulty in urination unless directed by their doctors. True False
13. Decongestants can raise blood pressure. True False
14. Decongestants should not be used by people with heart disease, thyroid disease, or diabetes unless a doctor says it's OK. True False
Score = Correct answers: