Symptoms of wheezing

Wheezing often becomes more noticeable when breathing out, although narrowed airways can affect either phase of breathing. Triggers include asthma, a chest infection such as [Acute Bronchitis](/conditions/acute-bronchitis/), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, allergies and inhaled irritants. In young children, [Bronchiolitis](/conditions/bronchiolitis/) can cause noisy breathing. The timing, trigger and associated symptoms help a clinician identify the cause.

Sit upright, move away from smoke or a known trigger, and use a prescribed reliever inhaler according to your action plan. Do not borrow another person’s inhaler. Keep a note of when the sound starts, what you were doing, and whether cough, rash or fever occurs. A clinician may recommend inhaler treatment or [Nebuliser Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/nebuliser-treatment/) depending on the cause and severity.

Call emergency services for severe breathlessness, inability to speak in full sentences, blue or grey lips, collapse, sudden facial or throat swelling, or wheezing after a possible allergen. These can signal [Anaphylaxis](/conditions/anaphylaxis/). Urgent assessment is also needed when wheezing starts suddenly, rapidly worsens, or does not improve with your prescribed plan.

Ask what is causing the wheeze, whether you need breathing tests, and how to use your inhaler correctly. Discuss triggers, night symptoms, exercise symptoms, smoking or vaping exposure, previous attacks and the exact threshold for emergency help.