Asthma is a clinical diagnosis. In other words, the symptoms and clinical findings are used to diagnose the condition. If you suspect that you or your child are suffering from asthma, your doctor will be able to give you a diagnosis based on your medical and family history, a physical exam, and test results.
Your doctor will also be able to tell you the severity of your asthma. The level of severity – whether it's intermittent, mild, moderate, or severe – determines the treatment options that best suit your condition.