[Sticky] Asthma

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.