Family doctors and physicians frequently encounter cases of wheezing in children. The wheezing sound is mostly caused when air is trying to move through the narrow or constricted airway of the lungs (1). According to a study shared by the American Academy of Family Physicians, wheezing is as prevalent as in 40% of the pediatric population by the age of three, and nearly half of all children will have experienced at least one wheezing episode by the age of six (2) (3). Read this post to learn the types and causes of childhood wheezing and how it can be diagnosed and managed.
Symptoms Of Wheezing In Children
Wheezing in children is characterized by (1):
High-pitched breathing A purring or whistling sound
The wheezing sound is most obvious while your child is exhaling or breathing out.
Causes Of Wheezing In Children
Several conditions and factors can lead to wheezing in children (2) (3).
Types Of Wheezing In Children
Wheezing in children can be of the following types depending on its pattern and duration (5).
When To Call A Doctor
Although wheezing is not harmful, you should immediately call a healthcare provider if the child has (6):
Breathing difficulty Sudden onset of wheezing after a bee sting, taking medicine, or eating a food item
Become unconscious or stopped breathing Bluish or pale lips or face Unusual fatigue Recently choked on a small object or food Rapid or uneven breathing Temperature over 98.6°F (37°C) Been refusing to drink or eat
Diagnosis Of Wheezing In Children
In most cases, wheezing can be clinically diagnosed. Your child’s doctor would obtain (2) (5):
Detailed family history and clinical history of a child Detailed information on the type of wheezing and associated symptoms Pattern and seasonality of wheezing
If your child has chronic and persistent wheezing, the doctor may prescribe additional tests to find the underlying cause.
Physical examination, especially in chronically ill children, to check for any signs of metabolic disorders, immunodeficiencies, or cystic fibrosis. Chest radiographs include chest X-rays or a chest CT scan to detect any structural anomalies or foreign body aspirations.
If a certain etiology is suspected in your child, the doctor may suggest:
Spirometry to detect asthma If an allergy is suspected, a radioallergosorbent test, skin test, or immunoglobulin assay can be used to evaluate IgE levels A complete blood count to detect eosinophilia Barium meal tests to detect gastrointestinal structural problems A pH test if your child is showing symptoms of GERD A swallowing assessment if a foreign body aspiration is being suspected
Treatment For Wheezing In Children
The treatment may differ depending on the type and underlying cause of wheezing in children. Some of the pharmacological treatments of wheezing may include the following (5). Some other medicines include antibiotics for bacterial infections and antihistamines to manage allergies. Do note that asthma medication can only be administered to children aged over 12-18 months (1).
Home Remedies For Wheezing In Children
If your child has mild wheezing, you may try some of these remedies for symptomatic relief after consulting your healthcare provider (3) (6).
Let your child breathe warm mist, such as with a shower running in a closed bathroom. Serve plenty of fluids, such as homemade lemonade, soups, and broth, to ease any irritation in the airways. Use homemade or over-the-counter saline (saltwater) nose drops to loosen up dried nasal mucus. Place a cool-mist humidifier in the child’s room. Prevent exposure to tobacco smoke, exhaust from automobiles, and volatile chemicals.
