asthma diary

overview

you can use an asthma diary to help track your peak flow readings, your symptoms, and your asthma triggers.

record your peak expiratory flow.
- measure your peak flow often—every morning and evening if possible—if your doctor recommends it.
- it may be helpful to record your peak flow using the same green, yellow, and red zone system used in your asthma action plan.
record your symptoms.
- if you have an asthma attack, write down what you think triggered it and your symptoms.
- write down what kind of medicine you used for quick relief and how well it worked.
- note if you had to call your doctor or get emergency care. this can help you know your triggers and help your doctor monitor your treatment.
here is an example of what you might include in your asthma diary, if you measure peak flow.
- day: tuesday
- morning peak flow: green
- evening peak flow: red
- trigger: swimming
- symptoms: wheezing
- quick-relief medicine and response: took salbutamol. got rid of wheezing.
- red-zone visit to doctor or hospital: no
share your diary with your doctor when you have a checkup.

learn more

asthma diary

related information

credits

current as of: august 6, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

advertisement