Questions to ask an asthma doctor

Doctor showing a man how to use an inhaler

Breathing is something we do involuntarily. Never are you more conscious of your breathing than when you have to catch your breath, which is a common symptom of asthma. Gasping for air is no fun and can be terrifying, and people who experience it want to know how to avoid it.

An asthma doctor can help you manage your condition and prevent the chest tightness and shortness of breath that you experience during asthma attacks. During your first visit to an asthma doctor’s clinic, a lot will take place. They will review your medical history, ask you about your symptoms, as well as specific details about your asthma flare-ups, such as how and when they occur. The doctor will also do some necessary tests before making an asthma diagnosis.

Asthma doctors like it when their patients take an active role in their care. One of the ways to become proactive is to ask your doctor questions during the visit. If you don’t know what questions to ask, here are some that can help you and your doctor have a more productive, meaningful conservation.

What To Ask Your Doctor

  • What type of asthma do I have and what is causing it?
  • Is my home or occupation making my asthma worse? What changes do I need to make to reduce the frequency or prevent an asthma attack?
  • How can I avoid an asthma flare-up?
  • Is there a cure for asthma?
  • What treatment options do I have?
  • What happens if I refuse treatment?
  • How do I administer asthma treatment myself? Do I need to take it every day?
  • Are there side effects that I should know about?
  • Will asthma treatment interfere with other medications I am currently on?
  • What is the worst-case scenario for patients with my type of asthma? Are there life-threatening complications associated with asthma?
  • Is there a way to prevent an asthma attack without needing to avoid triggers?
  • Can asthma cause damage to my lungs? How can I protect my lungs or improve my respiratory health despite having asthma?
  • When should I seek emergency care?
  • How do I know if I’m managing my asthma well, and what are the signs that my asthma is poorly managed?
  • Can I lead a physically active lifestyle in spite of asthma? What kind of exercises can I safely do?

These questions help you fully comprehend your condition and understand the best way to properly manage it. Many patients with asthma go on to live normal lives. It doesn’t have to hold you back, especially with an asthma doctor’s guidance.

Asthma Doctor in Downers Grove, Naperville, Elmhurst, and Plainfield, IL

Our board-certified doctors at Oak Brook Allergists specialize in treating patients with allergies and asthma. We are highly experienced in treating patients with different types of asthma, from allergy-induced asthma to non-allergic asthma, such as exercise-induced asthma, occupational asthma, and cough-variant asthma.

For expert asthma treatment, make an appointment with one of our physicians. Call our clinic today at (630) 574-0460 or use our convenient appointment request form. Oak Brook Allergists has four locations in northeastern Illinois from which to serve you.