Yes — telemedicine is commonly used to review and manage mild asthma symptoms, adjust maintenance plans, and discuss triggers — as long as you are not having a severe or acute attack.
👍 Telemedicine is usually appropriate for:
Mild or intermittent shortness of breath
Chest tightness that is not worsening
Increased inhaler use without distress
Nighttime cough or exercise-related symptoms
Routine asthma follow-up or medication review
Discussion of triggers, allergens, or exposures
Reviewing an asthma action plan or spirometry results
During a virtual visit, a clinician can typically:
Review symptoms, frequency, and control level
Assess inhaler technique and medication adherence
Discuss trigger avoidance
Adjust controller meds (e.g., ICS or ICS-LABA)
Refill inhalers
Provide/Update an asthma action plan
Decide whether in-person testing is needed
🟡 Telemedicine may be appropriate but could need follow-up if:
Symptoms occur weekly or at night
You need your rescue inhaler >2 days per week
You recently had an ER/urgent care visit
You suspect allergies or sinus issues worsening asthma
You’ve never had lung-function testing
The clinician may recommend:
In-person lung exam or spirometry
Allergy testing or ENT referral
Step-up preventive treatment
🔴 Seek urgent in-person care or emergency evaluation if you have:
Fast-worsening shortness of breath
Wheezing that doesn’t improve after rescue inhaler
Chest retractions or trouble speaking full sentences
Blue or gray lips/fingertips
Peak-flow in the red zone
No rescue inhaler available during symptoms
These situations are not appropriate for telemedicine.
