Asthma in adults: Gain control with a written plan

Managing asthma in adults can be complicated. Make it easier with a written action plan. Here's help getting started.

Take charge of your asthma by carefully monitoring your symptoms to see if your asthma is under control — and knowing exactly what steps to take when it isn't. Remember: Even though health professionals play a critical role in managing your asthma, you are the most important member of your "asthma team." The key to asthma control is daily monitoring and taking the right medication at the right time. When you have asthma:

You may need to take a number of medications at different times to control your symptoms
You may need to take peak flow readings to monitor how well your lungs are working
You must be prepared for quick action at the first sign of an asthma attack

How do you juggle these responsibilities? Get the instructions in writing. Having a clear written plan can reduce anxiety and help you control your asthma symptoms — instead of your symptoms controlling you.

What a written plan can do for you

Monitoring your asthma with a written plan is important for anyone with asthma, but even more so if you have moderate to severe persistent asthma or you have had serious asthma flare-ups (exacerbations). A written plan can help you:

Quickly recognize early warning signs of an asthma attack
Know when to adjust asthma medications
Keep tabs on how well treatment is working
Know when to call a doctor or seek emergency help

Creating an asthma action plan

Work with your doctor to develop a written asthma action plan, including step-by-step instructions for preventing and handling asthma attacks.

The action plan tells you how to prevent and treat asthma attacks based on certain signs, symptoms and measurements using a peak flow meter. Although formats vary, most action plans include clear instructions to help you:

Manage your medications. List your asthma medications and when to take them — including daily control medications and as-needed rescue medications. Make sure you know what medications you have on hand, where they are and how to use them. If you have a nebulizer to administer medication in mist form, the asthma action plan should include instructions for when to use it.
Take action based on symptoms and peak flow readings. A peak flow meter can help you monitor how well your lungs are working from day to day. If your peak flow rate drops, use the action plan to adjust your medication. Peak flow readings are a useful tool for quickly recognizing early signs of an asthma flare-up.
Recognize an asthma attack. When you're on the lookout for warning signs — such as coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath — you can take prompt action at the first sign of an attack. Follow the action plan's instructions for using quick-relief medications and other drugs meant for more serious attacks.
Know when to seek emergency care. Some attacks can't be managed at home. Use the action plan to recognize the signs of rapidly worsening asthma, such as lips and nails turning blue or difficulty speaking.
Organize contact information. List the doctor's phone number, emergency phone numbers and the location of the nearest emergency room.
Avoid your asthma triggers. The action plan also may have a place to list your asthma triggers — such as pollen, dust mites, mold, exercise, pet dander, smoke and respiratory infections — and tips for avoiding or minimizing your exposure to them.

Work with your doctor to tailor a plan based on your needs.

Sample Adult Asthma Action Plan (PDF file requiring Adobe Reader)

Looking ahead

Once you and your doctor have developed your written asthma plan, keep it in a safe place. Share your plan with a family member or friend who can help you during an emergency. In addition, keep a copy in your wallet or purse in case an asthma attack occurs away from home.

Meet with your doctor on a regular basis to review your action plan and revise it as needed, even if you aren't having any trouble managing your asthma. Although asthma can be controlled, symptoms change over time — requiring adjustments to treatment. Regular doctor visits can help make sure you're getting the treatment you need. These checkups are also a good time to reassess self-management skills, such as using your medications correctly and monitoring peak flow.

Think of the plan as a tool that can help you achieve the best asthma control possible. Following your plan is the best way to improve your lung function and stay out of the hospital — and in control of your asthma.