Box 3.1.

Relevant questions in the diagnosis of asthma

Does the patient or his/her family have a history of asthma or other atopic conditions, such as eczema or allergic rhinitis?

Does the patient have recurrent attacks of wheezing?

Does the patient have a troublesome cough at night?

Does the patient wheeze or cough after exercise?

Does the patient experience wheezing, chest tightness, or cough after exposure to pollens, dust, feathered or furry animals, exercise, viral infection, or environmental smoke (cigarettes, burning incense “Bukhoor,” or wood)?

Does the patient experience worsening of symptoms after taking aspirin/nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication or use of B-blockers?

Does the patient’s cold “go to the chest” or take more than 10 days to clear up?

Are symptoms improved by appropriate asthma treatment?

Are there any features suggestive of occupational asthma?