By monitoring symptoms and practicing self-management, people who have asthma can control their asthma symptoms. An important part of learning to control asthma is keeping a daily asthma diary. The asthma diary is used to:
Recording this information will help you become aware of early signs of asthma episodes. Your doctor will also use this diary to evaluate how well your or your child’s treatment plan is working.
First, record your peak flows in the appropriate asthma zone so that you can refer to them easily.
Personal best PEF: _______
Asthma is well-controlled. There are no asthma symptoms. You (or your child) can complete regular activities and sleep without coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. PEF is 80 to 100 percent of personal best.
My green zone is ________to ________.
A flare-up or asthma is poorly controlled. Cough, wheeze, shortness of breath, or chest tightness may be present. PEF is 50 to 80 percent of personal best.
My yellow zone is _______ to _______.
A severe flare-up or medical emergency. Symptoms are: frequent cough, severe shortness of breath, trouble talking, rapid breathing, wheezing, and difficulty sleeping. Start emergency asthma medication immediately and call your asthma care provider. If there is no change after starting the medication, go to the emergency room.
My red zone is ________.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider for advice about a specific medical condition.
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