Wheezing (Sibilant rhonchi)

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Wheezing

Alternate Names : Sibilant rhonchi

Definition

Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound during breathing. It occurs when air flows through narrowed breathing tubes.

Overview & Considerations

Wheezing is a sign that a person may be having breathing problems. The sound of wheezing is most obvious when breathing out (exhaling), but may be heard when taking a breath (inhaling).

Wheezing most often comes from the small breathing tubes (bronchial tubes) deep in the chest, but it may be due to a blockage in larger airways or in persons with certain vocal cord problems.

Common Causes

Asthma
Breathing a foreign object into the lungs
Bronchiectasis
Bronchiolitis
Bronchitis
Emphysema (COPD), especially when a respiratory infection is present
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Heart failure (cardiac asthma)
Insect sting that causes an allergic reaction
Medications (particularly aspirin)
Pneumonia
Smoking
Viral infection, especially in infants younger than age 2

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Wheezing : Definition
Wheezing : Overview & Considerations
Wheezing : Common Causes
Wheezing : Home Care & Treatment
Wheezing : Call your Health Care Provider if
Wheezing : What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office
Wheezing : References
Wheezing : Pictures & Images
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Review Date : 5/12/2009
Reviewed By : Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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