💬 Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Asthma

Asthma affects your breathing and can range from a mild nuisance to a life-threatening condition. Good communication with your doctor helps keep it under control.

📊 About 25 million people in the U.S. have asthma, including 5 million children. These 8 questions are organized by topic to help you get the most from your next appointment.

Understanding Your Asthma

What triggers my asthma, and how can I identify them?

Knowing your specific triggers is the first step to prevention.

How severe is my asthma — is it intermittent or persistent?

Classification determines your treatment plan.

What's the difference between my rescue inhaler and my daily controller?

Many patients misunderstand which inhaler to use when.

Treatment & Medication

Am I using my inhaler correctly? Can you watch me demonstrate?

Up to 90% of patients use inhalers incorrectly, reducing effectiveness.

What should my asthma action plan look like for different situations?

A written action plan reduces ER visits and hospitalizations.

Should I be using a peak flow meter at home?

Home monitoring can catch worsening asthma before symptoms appear.

Living with Asthma

Can I exercise with asthma, and how should I manage it?

Exercise is beneficial but may need pre-treatment with a rescue inhaler.

When should I go to the ER vs. manage symptoms at home?

Clear thresholds for emergency care can save your life.

Tips for Your Appointment

Before your visit: Pick the 3-5 questions that matter most to you. Write them down or save this page on your phone. Bring a family member or friend to help you remember what the doctor says.

During your visit: Don't be afraid to ask your doctor to slow down or explain something in simpler terms. It's your right to understand your own healthcare. If you hear a medical term you don't recognize, ask what it means.

Questions for Other Conditions

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance. These questions are meant to help facilitate a productive conversation with your doctor.

Written by Wes Donohoe, founder of VisitRecall — building tools for families navigating healthcare. Read more →
Last reviewed: 2026-05-06