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Wheezing causes and symptoms

Last updated on : 16 May, 2024

Read time : 5 min

What is Wheezing?

A high-pitched whistling sound that occurs when you take a deep breath is known as wheezing.

Your breath generates a whistling or rattling sound when your airway is partially closed, which is known as wheezing or whistling. With the aid of a stethoscope, some wheezes can be detected, although most can be detected by the human ear as well. You can hear a wheezing sound when you exhale, but it can also be heard when you inhale (inhale). Several factors influence the sound of a wheezing cough, including the location of obstructions in the respiratory system. A rough wheeze may be caused by a narrowing of the upper respiratory system.
It is possible for everyone, from infants to the elderly, to experience it. In children who have asthma, it is common for them to develop the condition.
Smaller airways in newborns may make wheezing more likely. A common but readily curable illness known as bronchiolitis affects children under the age of two. Inflammation and a viral infection of the respiratory tract are to blame. When it comes to wheezing in adults, those who smoke and those who have a heart condition are the most at risk.
The two main types of wheezing are inhalation, a whistling sound that occurs when you inhale and exhalation, a whistling sound that occurs when you exhale.
When you’re exhaling, your airways are more constricted, making it easier to detect wheezing. Expiratory wheezing can be heard on its own in some cases. Wheezing is a symptom of mild airway obstruction is common.

When you inhale, you may notice a wheezing sound. Asthma patients may only wheeze during the inhalation phase.
A more serious breathing problem may be causing your wheezing as you exhale and inhale. Doctors use a stethoscope to listen to your lungs and neck to determine the type of wheezing you’re suffering from.
When audible across the lungs, in particular in acute asthma, inspiratory wheezing frequently follows expiratory wheezing. A wheezing or stridor-like sound coming from the neck could indicate upper airway obstruction.

Wheezing causes

  • The most common causes of it are asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which causes bronchospasm in the airway passage of the lungs.
  • The other causes include obstructive sleep apnea, bronchiolitis (a common lung infection caused in young children or infants), bronchitis (Inflammation in bronchial tube linings), epiglottitis ( swelling of the windpipe), Anaphylaxis (Severe allergic reaction)and many more.

Symptoms of wheezing

Even though it isn’t life-threatening but it can be an indication of certain illnesses. Consult a doctor if your child is wheezing or if you’re experiencing the same. See a doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms in addition to wheezing, such as the appearance of blue skin.

A whistling sound and difficulty breathing, especially while exhaling are associated with wheezing symptoms.
Shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing as you exhale are some of the most common signs of COVID-19 respiratory infections in the airways and lungs.

Wheezing treatment

  • It could be a sign of a more serious breathing problem that needs to be diagnosed and treated. In the case of Mild Wheezing, as soon as you recover from a cold the wheezing should be cured along with it. But if the condition persists or you experience any of the following symptoms visit the doctor immediately. Symptoms such as Breathing difficulties, Inhaling and exhaling quickly, breathlessness or blue skin are common side effects after choking on a piece of food.
  • The immediate treatment begins with supplying oxygen to adequacy. Further, it is followed depending on the underlying reasons for the wheezing causes.
  • In the case of asthma, Bronchodilators are suggested to reduce inflammation and open your airways. Corticosteroids in the form of inhalations are used to combat inflammation. Leukotriene antibodies are used to treat asthma and allergy symptoms, and Bronchitis and Antibodies are given to fight bacterial infections.

A few home remedies for wheezing treatment are available.

They are as follows:

  • Several respiratory conditions cause throat constriction, and wheezing is a common symptom. The treatment is possible at home without taking an inhaler, but this will depend on the underlying reason for your symptoms.
  • Using steam inhalation to clear the sinuses and open up the airways can be quite beneficial.

A person can do this by following the following steps:

  1. Breathe in the vapour from a huge basin of boiling water.
  2. Wrap a towel around your head to keep the rest of your body dry.
  3. A few drops of menthol or eucalyptus oil can make the stream even more strong. These essential oils have Pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
  4. Essential oils of peppermint can be acquired in pharmacies or online.
  5. To ease congestion, you can also use a sauna or hot shower to get rid of it. The steam works even better if you gently tap on the back or chest and inhale deeply.
  6. Congestion can be relieved by drinking warm or hot beverages, such as tea or hot chocolate.
  7. The inherent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of honey make it a good addition to a cup of hot cocoa or tea.
  8. Peppermint or other menthol drinks may help some consumers. Teas can be experimented with to identify one that works best for a person.
  9. Breathing exercises are also included in this category.
  • COPD, bronchitis, allergies, and other common causes of wheezing may benefit from breathing exercises. Deep, regular inhalations and exhalations are common in breathing exercises. If you’re having trouble breathing, a doctor or respiratory therapist can help.
  • Having problems breathing is a common symptom of a panic attack. It’s also possible to use deep breathing exercises to help here. Slowly inhaling and exhaling, focusing on deep breathing into the abdomen, and counting breaths may help.

You must remain calm if it concerns you, as panicking can worsen it. When breathing becomes difficult or irregular, it is best to seek immediate medical attention.
The symptoms of wheezing can be alleviated with medicine even if the cause is a significant medical issue.

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Our healthcare experts have carefully reviewed and compiled the information presented here to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness. It is important to note that this information serves as a general overview of the topic and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, prevent, or cure any health problem. This page does not establish a doctor-patient relationship, nor does it replace the advice or consultation of a registered medical practitioner. We recommend seeking guidance from your registered medical practitioner for any questions or concerns regarding your medical condition.

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