Always consider objective measurements when contemplating an asthma diagnosis. There are several consequences associated with improper treatment such as: lost opportunity to diagnose the cause of symptoms, potential exposure to inappropriate medications, lost employment opportunities (i.e., military, public services), social consequences and economic factors.
Several studies have shown that patients with physician diagnosed asthma may have been misdiagnosed in approximately 1/3 of cases. To confirm a diagnosis of asthma, objective testing should be performed.