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Wheezing

Wheezing is a whistling, squeaking, musical or puffing sound made as air is forced through narrowed or swollen airways. It is a sign of a restricted airway. If a person's airways become so narrowed that enough air cannot move in and out of the lungs, a medical emergency can result. Often wheezing is worse when exhaling (breathing out).

Some of the causes for wheezing are:

• asthma

• an allergic reaction to airborne allergens

• a bad cold or lower respiratory infection

• objects like food stuck in the windpipe

• inhalation of irritants such as smoke, soot, or dust

• chronic lung diseases like emphysema, and bronchitis

• a collapsed lung and

• lung cancer

Try these self-care tips for temporary relief:

• use a humidifier in your home

• inhale the steam from a warm shower

• use breathing medications as directed

• avoid the use of over-the-counter inhalers, such as Primatine Mist, unless specifically recommended by your provider

• avoid airborne allergens such as molds and pollens and

• cover your mouth and nose if you go out into the cold air

Seek immediate medical evaluation for wheezing with signs of:

• shortness of breath with restlessness, confusion, and anxiety

• fast and irregular breathing

• bluish tinge around the lips or

• an inability to speak

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