Controlling Asthma

Many people think they have their asthma "under control."  In 2007, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of American (AAFA) in association with drugmaker AstraZeneca, which produces asthma medications conducted a survey of 4,000 asthma sufferers. The results showed that most people with asthma (59%) try to avoid taking medications whenever possible but they experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, or tightness in their chest at least once a week.. And one in three report using a rescue asthma inhaler at least daily, and 73 percent have used one in the last month.

Asking patients the right questions helps to determine the level of care and maintenance asthmatics need to control their asthma.  The following asthma control tests ask a few succinct questions that will help someone determine just how controlled their asthma is on a regular basis.

Adult Asthma Control Test

Child Asthma Control Test

There are five keys to help a patient control their asthma:

1. Taking prescribed medications

Patients should discuss with their health care providers what types of medications a patient should use, as well as how often to use them to most effectively control their asthma. 

2. Knowing your symptoms

Many people do not know they have asthma, especially if their symptoms aren't severe. But any asthma symptom is serious and can become deadly.

3. Following your Asthma Action Plan

If you have asthma, it is recommended that you have a plan developed between you and your healthcare provider that gives specific instructions for early treatment of asthma symptoms. 

4. Avoiding your triggers

Knowing what triggers your asthma, be it bad air quality, pollen, pets or pest, can help you avoid those things that can cause an asthma attack. 

5. Playing and being active

Asthma doesn't limit anyone from being active or enjoying the outdoors. It's important to stay active for the good of your health and you can do so while controlling your asthma.