Chest infection and wheezing when breathing out

The whistling sound is often easier to hear during exhalation because narrowed airways make it harder for air to leave. A chest infection may also bring cough, phlegm, tiredness, chest discomfort or fever. Wheezing is a symptom, not a diagnosis; asthma, allergies and other airway problems can also produce it. Read about [Wheezing](/symptoms/wheezing/) and [Acute Bronchitis](/conditions/acute-bronchitis/) for context.

Rest, drink fluids regularly if you can, avoid smoke and keep track of whether breathing is becoming easier or harder. A clinician may listen to your chest and decide whether an inhaled medicine or [Nebuliser Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/nebuliser-treatment/) is appropriate. Antibiotics are not suitable for every chest infection, so do not start leftover medicine. A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can help distinguish infection from asthma or another cause.

Seek urgent medical help if you are struggling to breathe, cannot speak comfortably because of breathlessness, develop blue or grey lips, feel faint, or have severe chest pain. Arrange prompt assessment if the wheeze is new, worsening, accompanied by fever that does not settle, or returns after initial improvement.

Ask whether the sound is wheeze or another breathing noise, whether your oxygen level and chest examination are reassuring, and whether you need testing or an inhaler. Mention any asthma history, allergies, smoking exposure, medicines and the date the symptoms began.