Reference this article for asthma management guidelines.
Based on guidelines and recommendations by the American Lung Association (ALA)
Self-management
- Use a Peak Flow Meter*: Assess PEF (Peak expiratory flow) to identify asthma symptoms before they start.
- Regular use may help to stop an episode quickly and avoid a serious attack. Your MD will review the Green,
- Yellow and Red zones levels with you and the appropriate response to each. Your RN Health Coach will also review and help you monitor your progress.
- Follow an Asthma Action Plan*: Know your Personal Best Zones based on peak flow numbers.
- Asthma Trigger Control: Know what things bring on your symptoms and avoid them as much as possible.
- Take Medications as Prescribed: When and how medications are taken is important for good control.
- Inhaled corticosteroids are the most effective long-term control therapy.
- Review the differences between long-term control and quick-relief medications and take medications correctly.
- Monitor response and seek medical care if there is serious deterioration or lack of response to treatment.
- Maintain a healthy diet and weight and consult your physician about regular exercise.
- Children should have a written plan for school.
- In children over 5 years and adults, you should have a referral to an asthma specialist if there are difficulties controlling asthma. In children under 5 years, consultation with an asthma specialist is recommended for patients with moderate to severe persistent asthma.
Keep a personal record in addition to the records kept in your doctor’s office.
Office Visits
- Develop a Management Plan: Talk with your Health Care Provider about asthma symptoms, activities, peak flow records and medications. Make a written, daily action plan for managing asthma symptoms.
- Regular Visits: Review and adjustment of treatment plan to fit your needs according to your individual goals and expected outcomes.
- Annual Flu Shot: Ask your doctor if this is appropriate for you.
- Pneumonia Vaccine: Ask your doctor if this is appropriate for you.