Definition: Asthma Action Plan

Asthma Action Plan

An asthma action plan is a set of instructions, designed with a doctor, that details how a person with asthma should manage their asthma at home. The plan includes:

• a list of the triggers the bring on person's asthma symptoms and how to avoid them
• a list of symptoms to watch for and what to do if they happen
• the names and doses of asthma medicines the person needs and when to use them

The plan also can include emergency phone numbers, instructions on when to contact the doctor or go right to the ER (emergency department), and where to get emergency care.

When the plan is kept up to date and followed closely, a person's asthma symptoms can be prevented or treated and their asthma can be well-controlled.