How is wheezing treated?

Wheezing is a whistling sound from narrowed airways. A clinician asks about timing, triggers, cough, fever, chest tightness, allergies, smoking and previous breathing problems. Asthma and COPD may need a long-term inhaler plan; Allergic Rhinitis can contribute to airway symptoms, while Bronchiolitis is more common in young children.

A reliever inhaler may open narrowed airways, while another inhaler can reduce airway inflammation when prescribed. Nebuliser Treatment delivers medicine as a mist and may be used when symptoms are severe or inhaler delivery is difficult. The medicine and device should match the diagnosis.

Sit upright, move away from smoke or a known trigger, and use your prescribed inhaler exactly as directed. Do not borrow another person's inhaler or delay assessment for a first episode. Arrange review for recurrent wheeze, night symptoms, exercise limitation, or a cough that keeps returning.

Call emergency services for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, inability to speak in full sentences, collapse, confusion, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Wheezing with swelling of the lips or tongue, widespread hives, or sudden breathing difficulty may signal Anaphylaxis and needs immediate help.

Ask what is causing the wheeze, how to use your inhaler correctly, when a spacer or Nebuliser Treatment is appropriate, and which triggers to avoid. Ask for a written action plan and clear instructions for worsening breathing.