What is an asthma action plan?

What is an asthma action plan?

Asthma Action Plan

Based on your history and asthma severity, you and your doctor will develop a care plan called an “asthma action plan.” The asthma action plan describes when and how to use your medicines, actions to take when asthma worsens, and when to seek emergency care. Make sure you understand this plan. If you do not, ask your asthma care provider any questions you may have.

Your asthma action plan is one of the keys to controlling asthma. Keep it readily available to remind you of what you need to do every day to control asthma and what you need to do when symptoms occur.

Goals of asthma therapy

These are the goals of asthma treatment:

  • Live an active, normal life
  • Prevent chronic and troublesome symptoms
  • Attend work or school every day
  • Perform daily activities without difficulty
  • Stop urgent visits to the doctor, emergency department, or hospital
  • Use and adjust medications to control asthma with few or no side effects

If you are unable to reach all of these goals, your asthma is not under control. You should contact your asthma care provider for advice.