The usual starting point when asthma is suspected is a visit to your doctor for a physical exam, in part to rule out other causes of your symptoms. This exam will also include laboratory tests that measure lung function and tests for allergies.
These lab tests may include any or all of the following:
- Spirometry (measurement of the volume of air inhaled or exhaled by the lung)
- Allergy skin testing
- Blood tests
- X-rays
- Bronchoprovocation testing (a test of how well your lungs function under different conditions, such as during exercise or in cold air)
Once you and your doctor know what kind of asthma you have and what your asthma triggers are, you can work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs.