1. Pain Free Test
The asthma control test involves five simple questions used to determine the impact of asthma in your life. Doctors, nurses and caregivers determine the effectiveness of the current asthma treatment program use the questionnaire. The questions apply to the last 4 weeks of time. The first question asks how much time asthma impacted on your ability to perform at work, school or home. The next two questions ask about the frequency of shortness of breath and asthma symptoms interfering with sleep. The fourth question asks about how often you are using your rescue inhaler and the last question asks for the patient's opinion of the level of control they have over the asthma.
2. Scoring Process
Each response has a numerical value. You can score up to 25 on the test and up to 5 on each question. The most severe symptoms receive a score of 1. The point value increases incrementally for each response.
3. Interpreting the Results
Higher scores are better on the asthma control test. A score of 5 on a question indicates that your asthma symptoms are under control. A score of 3 indicates your systems are partially controlled. A score of 1 indicates that your asthma is not under control. A total score of 6 or less on the entire asthma control test indicates you need to see your physician immediately as tour asthma is not controlled. A total score between 7 and 15 indicates that your asthma is moderately controlled. Total score between 16 and 20 indicates your asthma is well controlled. Total score of 20 to 25 indicates that your asthma is completely and properly controlled.
4. Asthma and Children
The asthma control test for children between 4 and 11 is the same as the test above, but there are two parts. The first section is answered by the child to determine the frequency and severity of their symptoms. The parent completes the second part. As a parent, it is important to monitor your child's asthma and the effectiveness of the treatment. The most important part is the education as children need to be responsible for their own asthma care. Involve them in the treatment and discuss what happens in an asthma attack, why it is important to treat it correctly and the importance of having a rescue inhaler handy.
5. Asthma and Teens
Complete the asthma control test with your teen at least twice a year. Make it part of their regular routine to review the status of their asthma management program. Teenage years are a time of great change, physically and emotionally. Medication that worked fine 6 months ago may no longer be effective because of changes in body size, weight and activity level. Make your teen responsible for their asthma care, but stay involved.
