Are There Different Categories of Asthma Severity?
Yes, asthma severity is usually divided into 4 categories. These include:
- Intermittent
- Mild persistent
- Moderate persistent
- Severe persistent asthma
They are based on the following:
- How often you have symptoms and how intense they are
- Lung function measurements (mostly done in a doctor’s office)
The severity of your asthma is determined by impairment and your future risk.
- Impairment is how asthma symptoms affect your daily life, physical activities, sleep, and overall quality of life. It is based on symptoms and lung function tests over the previous 2 to 4 weeks.
- Future risk is based on how often you have taken oral corticosteroids over the past year.
Your asthma category may change over time. Severe asthma attacks can happen in any category. If you have asthma, talk with your doctor. Make sure they review your symptoms and lung functions. They can determine how severe your asthma is and create an effective management plan. Continue to see your doctor on a regular basis.
John M. James, MD, is a board-certified allergist. He is also President of Food Allergy Consulting and Education Services, LLC. He has worked as a medical specialist in the field of allergy, asthma, and immunology for over 30 years. Dr. James received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas and his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Tennessee. He is board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology.
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