What is the Asthma Control Test?

The Asthma Control Test (ACT) is a simple questionnaire that asks about your symptoms, activity levels, and use of reliever inhalers over the last four weeks.

It was developed by asthma specialists and is widely used in both clinical practice and research. The test is validated, meaning it has been shown to be reliable in measuring asthma control, and is recommended by healthcare professionals.

Answer five quick questions to get your score.

Your score will give you an idea of whether your asthma is well controlled, partly controlled, or poorly controlled.

• Score 20–25 – Your asthma appears well controlled. Keep taking your medicine as prescribed and continue regular reviews with your doctor or asthma nurse.

• Score 16–19 – Your asthma may not be fully controlled. You may be experiencing more symptoms than you should. It’s a good idea to book a review with your doctor or asthma nurse.

• Score 5–15 – Your asthma is poorly controlled. You should make an appointment with your doctor or asthma nurse as soon as possible to review your treatment.

Remember: this tool is designed for people aged 12 years and over. There is a separate Childhood Asthma Control Test (C-ACT) for younger children.

Even if your asthma seems “okay,” poor control can increase your risk of asthma attacks, hospital visits, or needing stronger medicine in the future. Symptoms such as coughing at night, wheezing during exercise, or needing your reliever inhaler more than twice a week are all signs that your asthma may not be under control.

Well-controlled asthma means:

• Fewer or no day-to-day symptoms.

• Sleeping through the night without coughing or wheezing.

• Rare use of reliever inhalers.

• Being able to enjoy exercise and activities without limitation.

If your ACT score suggests your asthma is not well controlled, don’t ignore it. Book an asthma review with your doctor or asthma nurse. Bring your test result with you - it can help guide the discussion.

In the meantime:

• Make sure you are using your inhaler with the correct technique.

• Keep taking your preventer inhaler as prescribed, even if you feel well.

• Carry your reliever inhaler with you at all times.

• Follow your personalised asthma action plan, if you have one.

If you are having frequent symptoms, waking at night, or finding it hard to breathe, seek medical advice promptly.

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

• Your reliever inhaler isn’t helping.

• You are finding it difficult to speak, eat, or sleep because of your breathing.

• Your symptoms are suddenly getting worse.

Asthma attacks can be life-threatening - always act quickly.