How to Find Out if You Have Uncontrolled Asthma

Welcome to the latest episode of the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations podcast. This episode focuses on uncontrolled asthma and what patients can do to recognize it, name it, and find better care. It’s the second of two podcasts addressing uncontrolled asthma.

Co-hosts Kortney and Payel Gupta, MD, are joined by Juanita Mora, MD, allergist and immunologist at Chicago Allergy Center. Together, they walk through the “Rules of 2,” a set of five simple yes/no questions that can help patients figure out if their asthma needs more attention.

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Listen to Uncontrolled Asthma Podcast

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Thank you to Sanofi-Regeneron for supporting this episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Any mention of brands is also informational and not an endorsement. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical questions or concerns.

Key takeaways about asthma symptoms and control

Too many people with asthma have accepted symptoms as just part of life. But frequent flare-ups, waking up at night, and daily inhaler use are signs that something needs to change.

  • What well-managed asthma feels like. When asthma is properly treated, you should be able to sleep through the night, stay active, and go about your day without your asthma getting in the way.
  • Why airway swelling is dangerous. The more swelling you start with, the harder it is to breathe when a trigger like a virus or allergen comes along.
  • The Rules of 2. Five questions covering daytime symptoms, waking up at night, quick-relief inhaler use, inhaler refills, and steroid use that can help you tell if your asthma needs better treatment.
  • When to ask for a referral. A yes to any of the Rules of 2 questions is a sign to see your doctor. If your treatment plan is not changing, ask for a referral to an allergist or pulmonologist who has more tools to help.
  • ControlYourAsthma.org. The first steps you can take to get your asthma under control. Available in English and Spanish, the campaign website includes videos, the Rules of 2 quiz, and access to a free asthma coach who can answer your day-to-day questions and help you find a specialist.

Episode timestamps from the podcast on uncontrolled asthma

04:30 — Why asthma control matters 

09:22 — The Rules of 2

14:15 — Next steps after answering yes

18:05 — Asthma control website resources in English and Spanish

More resources about asthma management and control

Check out the first podcast in the series: What Providers Need to Know About Uncontrolled Asthma