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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 .
Current as of: November 14, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Rohit K Katial MD - Allergy and Immunology
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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