Sample questions* for the diagnosis and initial assessment of asthma

A "yes" answer to any question suggests that an asthma diagnosis is likely.

In the past 12 months, have you^¶...

Had a sudden severe episode or recurrent episodes of coughing, wheezing (high-pitched whistling sounds when breathing out), chest tightness, or shortness of breath?

Had colds that "go to the chest" or take more than 10 days to get over?

Had coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath during a particular season or time of the year?

Had coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath in certain places or when exposed to certain things (eg, animals, tobacco smoke, perfumes)?

Used any medications that help you breathe better? How often?

Had symptoms relieved when the medications are used?

In the past four weeks, have you^¶ had coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath...

At night that has awakened you?

Upon awakening?

After running, moderate exercise, or other physical activity?

* These questions are examples and do not represent a standardized assessment or diagnostic instrument. The validity and reliability of these questions have not been assessed.
¶ Or "your child," if a parent/caregiver is answering the questions for a child.

Reproduced from: National Heart, Blood, and Lung Institute Expert Panel Report 3 (EPR 3): Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma. NIH Publication no. 08-4051, 2007.

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Sample questions* for the diagnosis and initial assessment of asthma