Table. Findings that increase or decrease the probability of asthma in adults
Asthma is more likely to explain the symptoms if any of these apply |
Asthma is less likely to explain the symptoms if any of these apply |
---|---|
More than one of these symptoms:
Symptoms recurrent or seasonal Symptoms worse at night or in the early morning History of allergies (e.g. allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis) Symptoms obviously triggered by exercise, cold air, irritants, medicines (e.g. aspirin or beta blockers), allergies, viral infections, laughter Family history of asthma or allergies Symptoms began in childhood Widespread wheeze audible on chest auscultation FEV1 or PEF lower than predicted, without other explanation Eosinophilia or raised blood IgE level, without other explanation Symptoms rapidly relieved by a SABA bronchodilator |
Dizziness, light-headedness, peripheral tingling Isolated cough with no other respiratory symptoms Chronic sputum production No abnormalities on physical examination of chest when symptomatic (over several visits) Change in voice Symptoms only present during upper respiratory tract infections Heavy smoker (now or in past) Cardiovascular disease Normal spirometry or PEF when symptomatic (despite repeated tests) |
Adapted from:
Respiratory Expert Group, Therapeutic Guidelines Limited. Therapeutic Guidelines: Respiratory, Version 4. Therapeutic Guidelines Limited, Melbourne, 2009.
British Thoracic Society (BTS) Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN). British Guideline on the Management of Asthma. A national clinical guideline. BTS/SIGN, Edinburgh; 2012. Available from: https://www.brit-thoracic.org.uk/guidelines-and-quality-standards/asthma-guideline/.