Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Doctors do not use one specific test to diagnose asthma.
  • To help diagnose asthma, your doctor will take your medical history, do a physical examination, listen to your lungs and order some lung function tests.
  • A lung function test measures airflow in and out of the lungs, and will help your doctor to diagnose asthma.
  • You should take your child to the doctor if you are concerned about any breathing problems they may have.
  • A lung function test is not usually possible in children younger than 5 years.
  • Diagnosing asthma in very young children can be difficult.

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 27-06-2023