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Home Knowledge Center Wellness Library Asthma Diary

Asthma Diary

Overview

An asthma diary helps you keep track of how well you are managing your asthma.

If you have symptoms or an asthma attack, record the trigger (if possible), the symptoms, and what kind of medicine you used for relief and how well it worked. Also note if you had to contact your doctor or seek emergency care. This can help you know your triggers and help your doctor monitor your treatment.

If your doctor recommends it, measure your peak expiratory flow (PEF) often, every morning and evening if possible, and record it in your diary. It may be helpful to record your PEF using the same green, yellow, and red zone system used in your asthma action plan.

Here is an example of how to use an asthma diary if you are keeping track of peak flow.

Week of October 12

My personal best peak flow is 400 liters per second. My:

  • Green zone is 320 to 400 liters per second (80% to 100% of my personal best). To figure 80% of your personal best peak flow, multiply your best flow (in this example, 400) by 0.80 (in this example, you get 320).
  • Yellow zone is 200 to 319 liters per second (50% to less than 80% of my personal best). To figure 50% of your personal best peak flow, multiply your best flow (in this example, 400) by 0.50 (in this example, you get 200).
  • Red zone is less than 200 liters per second (less than 50% of my best).

My current long-term (controller) medicine is fluticasone.

Example of an asthma diary

Date

AM/PM PEF

Trigger

Symptoms

Quick-relief medicine and response

Red zone visit to doctor/hospital?

Green

Yellow

Red

Monday

3:50 a.m.

3:00 p.m.


Albuterol

Improved PEF

No

Tuesday

190

Swimming

Wheezing

Albuterol

Eliminated wheezing

No

Click here for a blank asthma diary template .

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. Learn how we develop our content.

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Related Links

Asthma in Children Asthma Action Plan Asthma: Taking Charge of Your Asthma Asthma in Teens and Adults Asthma: Using an Asthma Action Plan

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