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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, unless specifically recommended by your doctor
- avoid airborne allergens such as moulds 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
Article #5186 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
