Instant relief from wheezing

Wheezing is a whistling sound caused by narrowed or irritated airways. Asthma, COPD, acute bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and an allergic reaction can present with wheezing. It may occur after an infection, exercise, smoke exposure, or contact with an allergen. The sound does not reveal the cause by itself, and new wheezing deserves medical assessment even if it settles.

Stop exertion and sit upright rather than lying flat. Move away from smoke, dust, fumes, or a suspected allergen. If you have a prescribed reliever inhaler, follow your personal action plan and use the device with the technique taught to you. Do not borrow someone else's inhaler. A nebuliser treatment may be used by clinicians when appropriate, but it is not a substitute for emergency help. Keep monitoring whether you can speak comfortably and breathe at rest.

Call emergency services immediately for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, inability to speak in full sentences, collapse, confusion, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Wheezing with swelling of the face or tongue, hives, or vomiting may indicate anaphylaxis and needs emergency treatment. Seek same-day advice for a first episode, chest pain, fever with worsening cough, or relief that does not last. Children with fast or laboured breathing need prompt assessment.

What is triggering my wheeze, and do I need breathing tests? Can you check my inhaler technique and provide a written action plan? When should I use urgent care rather than another dose?