Is your asthma under control?

Five ways to tell.

If you've been diagnosed with asthma, you've probably been prescribed a rescue inhaler such as Ventolin, and possibly an inhaled corticosteroid. If your asthma is more severe, you may even be on oral medications.

Over time, you've learned how to control your symptoms through a combination of medications and/or allergen reducing or cleaning products.

But what what many patients may not realize is that asthma can change, sometimes requiring a medical visit and a new asthma action plan. If your asthma symptoms have changed or worsened, here are three general guidelines that may help you decide whether it's time to see your doctor to re-evaluate your asthma control.

1. Rescue inhalers are an important part of your plan to control your symptoms, but if you find yourself requiring more than three doses per week, this may point to uncontrolled asthma that calls for a doctor's visit.

2. Do your asthma symptoms wake you up during the night?

3. Are you missing more work or school than usual because of your symptoms?

4. Are you wheezing or coughing with regular physical exertion? (e.g., walking, doing household chores)

5. Do you experience asthma symptoms (e.g., wheezing, tightness in your chest, coughing) at least two or three days per week?

If any of the above are the case, please consult a licensed medical professional to help you improve your asthma control. When you do, you'll both breathe easier.

© 2009 Allergytimes.com. All rights reserved. This article is provided for general informational purposes only, and is not intended to replace medical advice. When in doubt, please consult with a licensed allergist.