The best prevention is to avoid known triggers. People with asthma definitely should not smoke or be around people who smoke. Working in areas with excessive dust or fumes should also be avoided. Once a person is diagnosed with asthma, he or she should follow the treatment plan given by the healthcare provider. Using asthma medicines correctly will help prevent asthma attacks.
Diagnosis of asthma begins with a medical history and physical exam.
Pulmonary function tests are simple breathing tests that are often used to measure breathing limitations. Sometimes chest X-rays can show air trapped in the lungs. However, these tests sometimes don't show the usual changes of asthma, even though the person has the disease. In those situations, a methacholine challenge test can be used. The person is exposed to cold air or an irritating stimulant while he or she is walking on a treadmill.