What Kind of Tests are Required for Monitoring Asthma?

Dr.Akshay Budhraja, 3 mins read

Asthma is one of the most common long-term health problems in the present time across the world. According to global reports, millions of children and adults are suffering with this condition. In India, asthma affects a large number of families, often disturbing daily life, school and work. It cannot be completely cured, it can be managed very well with the right treatment and regular monitoring. 

To keep asthma under control, doctors recommend certain tests that check how well the lungs are working and whether the treatment plan is effective.

Importance of Monitoring Asthma:

Asthma causes the airways in the lungs to become narrow and inflamed, making it hard to breathe. Sometimes, symptoms are mild, but at other times they can become serious or even life-threatening. Monitoring asthma regularly helps prevent sudden attacks, reduces hospital visits, and allows patients to live a normal, active life. Tests also help doctors adjust medicines according to the patient’s needs.

1. Spirometry

Spirometry is the most common test used to check lung function. In this test, you breathe into a special machine that measures how much air you can breathe out in one second, called FEV1. The total amount of air you can exhale after taking a deep breath.

If the numbers are low, it may mean your asthma is not well controlled. Spirometry is usually done in hospitals or clinics and is safe for both adults and older children.

2. Peak Flow Measurement

This is a simple test that patients can do at home using a peak flow meter. The device is small, portable, and easy to use. It measures how fast you can blow air out of your lungs. By checking peak flow daily, patients can notice early signs of worsening asthma, even before symptoms start. Keeping a peak flow diary helps doctors understand your asthma pattern.

3. Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) Test

This test  is designed to measure the amount of nitric oxide in your breath. High levels of nitric oxide indicates that there is inflammation in the airways. The FeNO test is quick, painless and very helpful in checking whether asthma medicines, especially inhaled steroids, are working properly or not.

4. Allergy Tests

Asthma is often linked with allergies. Doctors may do a skin prick test or a blood test to find out if triggers like dust, pollen, pet hair, or certain foods are making asthma worse. Once you know your triggers, you can avoid them and reduce flare-ups.

5. Chest X-ray and Blood Oxygen Level

Chest X-rays are not always needed, but sometimes doctors use them to rule out other lung problems. A pulse oximeter, which clips onto your finger, measures the oxygen level in your blood. This is especially useful during an asthma attack or if symptoms are severe.

6. Tracking of signs and symptoms

Apart from medical tests, tracking symptoms is very important. Patients should note how often they cough or wheeze and check if they wake up at night with breathing problems. They should also check how often they use a rescue inhaler. These information helps doctors in determining the extent of asthma.

Takeaway!

Asthma can affect anyone, from children to the elderly, but with proper monitoring it does not have to stop people from living a healthy and active life. Tests like spirometry, peak flow measurement, FeNO, allergy testing, and simple symptom tracking give doctors a clear picture of lung health. If you have any query regarding asthma, you can visit Aakash Healthcare and consult our expert pulmonologists for better advice and treatment plans.