What are common signs that asthma is not well controlled?

Frequent nighttime awakenings and increased use of a rescue inhaler are clear indicators that asthma is not well controlled. When a patient experiences these symptoms, it suggests that their airways are inflamed or obstructed, resulting in difficulty breathing and the need for quick-relief medication more often than recommended. Nighttime awakenings due to asthma symptoms indicate a lack of adequate nighttime control, which can significantly affect a person's quality of life and sleep.

In contrast, regular exercise without symptoms signifies that asthma is likely well managed, as individuals should be able to engage in physical activities without experiencing asthma-related issues. A lack of any symptoms would also suggest good control of asthma, as it indicates that the disease is under management and not causing disruptions. Reduced airflow with no consequences might imply that although there is some obstruction in the airways, it is not currently affecting the individual's day-to-day functioning or causing observable symptoms. Therefore, the presence of nighttime awakenings and increased reliance on rescue inhalers is a critical indicator of poor asthma control.