Wheezing is a high-pitched noise that occurs when the airways become inflamed or obstructed. Breathing becomes difficult and a sound like a whistle emerges from the lungs or throat, particularly during exhalation. There are dozens of different reasons wheezing may occur, from asthma to heart failure to sleep apnea. If wheezing is keeping you awake at night, here are a few treatment options that may help.
Diagnosing the Cause of Wheezing
If you or a loved one has been experiencing wheezing, it’s important to visit a doctor to identify the cause in order to ensure the best course of treatment. Although some people may begin wheezing due to fairly mild, treatable illnesses, wheezing can also be the result of serious medical conditions.
For example, a mild case of bronchitis can be managed at home, but if the wheezing is the result of pneumonia instead it’s important to get to a doctor as soon as absolutely possible—and sometimes that means going to the emergency room.
Managing Chronic Wheezing
Sometimes wheezing continues even after you’ve seen a doctor. Respiratory infections can take a few days to clear up, and you may still be miserable and wheezing even after you’ve started medication.
Furthermore, more serious diseases may be the reason you’re wheezing. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), emphysema, and other lung conditions may be ongoing—and some days your wheezing may be worse than others. However, if you follow the treatment orders from your doctor and practice good lifestyle choices for managing your particular disease, you can help keep long-term wheezing in check as much as possible.
Using Quick Tips to Reduce Wheezing
Sometimes wheezing is one of those things you may just have to put up with until you can get to a doctor or until your medication kicks in. Dry air can sometimes exacerbate a chronically inflamed throat, lungs, or airways. So, utilizing a humidifier may put some extra moisture in the air to help calm your wheezing. A hot shower or even just drinking warm fluids, like tea, may also provide the moisture necessary. It may also help to avoid cigarette smoke (first- or second-hand). If these are ineffective, your doctor may be able to provide you with alternative treatment options.
Some inhalers and oral medications are intended to help dilate the airways and reduce swelling so that breathing becomes easier. While this may provide short term help, treating the underlying condition is the most important aspect.
Emergency Treatments
In some cases, serious emergencies like an obstruction in the throat or anaphylaxis (an extreme allergic reaction) can cause wheezing. When this is the case, the best treatment is to get emergency medical assistance right away. Anaphylaxis can occur within seconds, and both of these scenarios are life-threatening.
