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Wheezing in Children

Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound that usually happens when a child breathes out. It occurs when air moves through narrowed airways in the lungs.

Asthma is a common cause of wheezing. Viral infections, bronchiolitis, allergic reactions and other conditions that narrow or irritate the airways can also cause it.

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AAP Guide to Wheezing in Children

The AAP guide below explains what wheezing sounds like, common causes and when breathing symptoms need urgent care.

AAP Symptom CheckerWheezing

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • This is your child’s first episode of wheezing.
  • Wheezing comes with faster or harder breathing.
  • Prescribed rescue medicine is not helping as expected.
  • Wheezing keeps returning or your child does not have a clear treatment plan.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child is struggling for each breath or cannot speak normally.
  • Your child’s lips or face turn blue or gray.
  • Your child collapses, becomes very sleepy or stops breathing.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

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