What should you know about wheezing lung sound?

Wheezing may sound musical, whistling or squeaky, often during breathing out. Air moving through swollen, tight or mucus-filled airways creates the noise. Asthma can cause episodes after triggers such as smoke, dust, cold air or exercise. A chest infection such as acute bronchitis can also irritate the tubes. Allergies may affect the nose and lower airways; sudden wheeze with swelling or trouble breathing can signal anaphylaxis. In infants, bronchiolitis is another possible cause. COPD can produce persistent airflow narrowing, particularly in people with a history of smoking or other lung irritation.

The sound alone cannot identify the cause. Notice when it began, whether it is new or recurring, which activities or exposures bring it on, and whether you also have cough, fever, chest tightness or breathlessness.

Move away from smoke, fragrances, dust or a suspected allergy trigger and sit upright. Rest and take calm, steady breaths. If a clinician has prescribed a reliever inhaler or another breathing plan, follow those instructions exactly; do not borrow someone else’s medicine. Arrange a medical assessment for a first episode, repeated episodes, or wheeze that does not settle. A clinician may listen to your chest and decide whether breathing tests or treatment such as nebuliser treatment is appropriate.

Seek emergency help if wheezing comes with severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, blue or grey lips, faintness, confusion, inability to speak comfortably, or swelling of the face, lips or tongue. Sudden symptoms after food, medicine or an insect sting need urgent attention because anaphylaxis can progress quickly. For a child, urgent assessment is needed if the ribs pull in with each breath, the child is unusually sleepy, or feeding becomes difficult.

What might be narrowing my airways? Could an inhaler or breathing test help? Which symptoms mean I should use my written action plan or seek emergency care? Should I avoid a particular trigger while this is being assessed?