Hello, I’m Dr. C. Andrew Schroeder, for About.com.Asthma needs to be monitored because exacerbations are avoidable.  You can monitor your asthma symptoms at home and in the doctor’s office.Home monitoring allows you to track your symptoms, get objective data, and monitor your medication use. Home monitoring uses a diary that includes:Interim history- this includes what has happened since your last doctor’s visit and what is happening at your doctor’s visit, currently.Spirometry- This is a simple hand-held test that is available in any pulmonary office.Review of treatment plan – This is the last part of your doctor’s visit where you go over your current plan, which may include changes. When in the doctor’s office, the following should be addressed:Your conversation with the doctor should also include feelings about asthma sharing your feelings about asthma could lead to an improved treatment plan.  I’m Dr. C. Andrew Schroeder for About.com.  Thanks for watching.