Physical exam

Your doctor may:

• Examine your nose, throat and upper airways.
• Use a stethoscope to listen to your breathing. Wheezing — high-pitched whistling sounds when you breathe out — is one of the main signs of asthma.
• Examine your skin for signs of allergic conditions such as eczema and hives.

Your doctor will want to know whether you have common signs and symptoms of asthma, such as:

• Recurrent wheezing
• Coughing
• Trouble breathing
• Chest tightness
• Symptoms that occur or worsen at night
• Symptoms that are triggered by cold air, exercise or exposure to allergens

Asthma signs and symptoms in children

In children, additional signs and symptoms may signal asthma. These may include:

• Louder or faster than normal breathing
• Frequent coughing or coughing that worsens after active play
• Coughing, clear mucus and a runny nose caused by hay fever
• Frequent missed school days
• Limited participation in physical activities