Wheezing is caused by narrowed airways in the lung. There are many causes of wheezing. It sounds like a high-pitched whistle when the child breathes out, but may also occur with breathing in when the child is having more problems. There may be rapid breathing, tight, difficult breathing and a cough.
The main concern is in watching for signs of difficult breathing:
HOME TREATMENT
Medications.
- Medications for asthma require drugs that are called bronchodilators.
- Bronchodilators mainly come in inhalers ( +/- spacers ) that are puffed into the lungs or may be provided by using a nebulizer that delivers a mist of medication to the child over 5 to 15 minutes.
- If your child has a history of asthma and you have used these medications in the past, you may use these as needed when attacks occur as guided by your doctor.
- Steroids for serious asthma attacks should only be used after discussion with the doctor, unless they have already established an " asthma plan " for you to use these.
Bronchiolitis in the infant.
- Fluids need to be encouraged to avoid dehydration.
- Bulb syringing and clearing the nose of mucous, especially before eating is helpful (see colds for how to use the bulb syringe) in younger infants.
- Using a humidifier will also help breathing for an infant.
- Prescription medications, like the bronchodialators, may be prescribed by your doctor depending on the severity of the illness.
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