If you have asthma, you should talk to your allergist about creating an asthma action plan. These written plans outline how you should treat your asthma on a daily basis, and they help you know what to do in the event of an asthma attack.
Dr. Langford can help ensure you include all the necessary information in your asthma action plan. Generally, your plan should include:
- When to take medication
- Which medicine to take
- What to do during an asthma attack
- Treatment goals
- Peak expiratory flow (PEF) measurements
- A journal where you can log asthma symptoms and ways to manage your asthma
Asthma Action Plan PEF Zones
Most asthma action plans define three zones based on your symptoms or PEF: green, yellow, and red.
The green zone is the good zone. It means you are exhibiting zero asthma symptoms, and your PEF is 80%-100% of your personal best measurement.
The yellow zone is the caution zone. In this zone, your PEF will be 50%-79% of your personal best measurement, and you may experience mild symptoms. Your lung function is reduced in the yellow zone, and you might have coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness. Your action plan will tell you which medicines to take while in the yellow zone.
The red zone is the dangerous zone. Your PEF is less than 50% in this zone, and your symptoms may be severe. You should seek medical help immediately, and follow the instructions on your asthma action plan.
Talk to Dr. Langford about Creating Your Asthma Action Plan
To begin developing an asthma action plan, schedule an appointment at Langford Allergy today. Dr. Langford will educate you on how to treat asthma and give you the resources necessary to live a normal, healthy life with asthma. We look forward to seeing you!