What's better than a stethoscope for gauging an asthma flare?

Getty Images. Nora Carol Photography.

“Aren’t you going to listen to my lungs?” my ER patient with asthma asked me.

“Umm, not unless you really want me to,” I answered truthfully. I didn’t even have a stethoscope on me.

“Why not?” she asked, more curious than impatient or displeased.

“Because,” I said, “I believe you.”