Asthma severity classification levels are guidelines for the diagnosis of asthma. They assist clinicians in determining the proper course of treatment based on your symptoms. This classification system is accompanied by guidelines that assist providers with assessment of the patient, identification of contributing factors, medication treatment plan and patient education. Your asthma should be classified at every visit to your doctor's office.
Mild Intermittent Asthma
Someone with mild, intermittent asthma has symptoms twice a week or less during the day. He has nighttime symptoms twice or less during a month's time and his spirometry results are 80 percent of normal. His peak flow variability is less than 20 percent. An asthma flareup might last for a short period of time.
Mild Persistent Asthma
Someone with mild persistent asthma has symptoms more than twice a week. She has nighttime symptoms more than twice a month. Her spirometry result is 80 percent or less than her predicted value. Her peak flow varies between 20 and 30 percent. Asthma flareups might affect her ability to perform activities.
Moderate Persistent Asthma
Someone with moderate persistent asthma has symptoms daily. He has nighttime symptoms more than once per week and his lung function is less than 80 percent but greater than 60 percent of predicted value. His peak flow variability is more than 30 percent. Flareups may affect the ability to engage in regular activity.
Severe Persistent Asthma
Someone with severe, persistent asthma has symptoms continually. She has nighttime symptoms frequently, and her lung function is less than or equal to 60 percent. Her peak flow variability is more than 30 percent. Flareups affect activity level.
