ges, like atopic dermatitis or eczema, are a tip off that the patient has allergic problems. (Cramer 5) Inquiring about family history of asthma or allergies can be a valuable indicator of asthma. The diagnosis may be strongly suggested when typical symptoms and signs are present. A test called spirometry measures how rapidly air is exhaled and how much is retained in the lungs. Repeating the test after the patient inhales a drug that widens the air passages (a bronchodilator) will show whether the airway narrowing is reversible, which is a very typical finding in asthma. Often patients use a related instrument, called a peak flow meter, to keep track of asthma severity at home. Often, it is difficult to determine what is triggering asthma attacks. Allergy skin test may be used, although an allergic skin response does not always mean that the allergen being tested is causing the asthma. Also, the bodys immune system produces antibody to fight off that allergen, and the amount of antibody can be measured by a blood test. This will show how sensitive the patient is to a particular allergen. If the diagnosis is still in doubt, the patient can inhale a suspect allergen while using a spirometer to detect airway narrowing. Spirometry can also be repeated after a bout of exercise if exercise induced asthma is a possibility. A chest x-ray will help rule out other disorders.Currently, several drugs are used to treat asthma. Not all asthmatic drugs should be used by every asthma patient. Some patients with mild asthma only need to use medication intermittently to control wheezing. Patients with more serious asthma need to take medication at regular intervals to avoid life-threatening attacks. It is important for asthma patients to see their doctors if the frequency or severity of their symptoms change. One form of medication is termed bronchodilators. Bronchodilators dilate constricted lung airways by relaxing the muscles, which line the bronchia...
