The simple answer is—Yes. A normal pulmonary function test is actually our goal for every asthmatic!

So, let’s explain:

A spirometry test (the main asthma pulmonary function test measuring the FEV1) tells us how much airway narrowing is present at the time of the test. The test involves breathing out forcefully into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometer machine.

FEV1 is the amount of air you can force from your lungs in one second.

By definition, asthma is a reversible airway disease. Asthma severity varies by what triggers are currently affecting the patient, what controllers are being used, and what relievers are in use.

With an asthma flare or poor asthma control the FEV1 normally falls. With treatment it improves.

A normal pulmonary function test is found in an asthmatic who:

The most important asthma controller is inhaled corticosteroids, which work over time to reduce asthma attacks.

As all asthmatics know, it’s nice to have something that helps fix your shortness of breath, cough, wheezing, or chest tightness right away.  Like many asthmatics, your albuterol inhaler, which helps relieve these symptoms, can quickly become your very best friend!  But did you know that you can get too much of a good thing?  Read more to learn why.