Causes of wheezing and coughing

Acute Bronchitis can cause a cough with mucus and temporary wheezing after airway irritation. Asthma may cause episodes brought on by exercise, cold air, allergens or night-time changes. COPD can cause ongoing cough, phlegm and airflow limitation.

Allergic Rhinitis may add a throat-clearing cough from nasal drainage. Anaphylaxis is a sudden, dangerous allergic reaction in which wheeze may occur with hives, swelling or throat tightness. A dry cough, mucus, fever, chest discomfort and the length of illness help guide assessment.

Rest, drink fluids and avoid smoke, dust and strong fragrances. Sit upright if breathing feels tight. Use only prescribed inhalers or medicines and keep a record of cough type, wheeze, triggers, fever, phlegm colour and any breathing changes.

Arrange a clinical review when a new cough and wheeze persist, recur or disrupt sleep. The clinician may check oxygen levels, listen to the chest and consider inhaler treatment, breathing tests or assessment for infection.

Seek emergency help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, confusion, collapse, inability to speak normally, or swelling of the lips, tongue or throat. Obtain prompt medical advice for chest pain, coughing blood, rapidly worsening wheeze, high fever or a cough in someone with significant lung disease.

Does the cough sound like airway irritation, mucus or another problem? Could asthma, infection or allergy fit the timing? What symptoms should prompt urgent help, and should I have breathing tests or a written inhaler plan?