Low probability of asthma

What does a low probability of asthma mean?

If you've been told you are at low probability of having asthma, it means that the doctor/nurse you saw feels it is unlikely that you have asthma based on current information. Your doctor/nurse may consider testing you for other conditions. This may involve a chest X-ray, breathing tests (lung function tests), blood tests, or in some cases tests to check your heart, or to investigate for an allergy.

If your doctor thinks it’s necessary, they may refer you to a specialist to investigate the cause of your symptoms and identify the correct diagnosis.

Summary

• A low probability of asthma suggests that there is likely to be an alternative cause for your symptoms - your doctor/nurse will often investigate these first.
• If you have had further investigations and its still not clear what the cause is, then a referral to a specialist is often appropriate.
• Some people who dont have typical symptoms of asthma and are initially considered "low probability" may eventually find that the cause has been asthma - so its always worth thinking about if symptoms of wheeze, cough, breathlessness or chest tightness continue.