Wheezing

High-pitched, whistling breath may be an occasional annoyance or a more serious issue. If you struggle with frequent wheezing breath, talk to Robert McDermott, MD, and Amy Johnson, PA-C, at Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies in Basalt and Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The expert team can determine the underlying cause of your respiratory issues and help you find relief. Schedule your appointment today by clicking the online scheduler or calling the office.

What is wheezing?

Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling or coarse rattling sound you may hear when you breathe, especially when you exhale. It happens when your airways narrow or experience a partial blockage, making it harder for air to flow in and out of your lungs.

This can be caused by things like allergies, the common cold, bronchitis, or asthma. Wheezing can also be a symptom of more serious conditions such as pneumonia or heart failure.

How common is wheezing?

Wheezing can affect anyone at any age. In adults, it’s more common in people who smoke or have chronic conditions like emphysema or heart failure. In babies, wheezing is fairly common because their airways are very small, making them more sensitive to inflammation or infections.

This type of breathing difficulty may also occur more frequently in kids and adults with asthma or allergies. Fortunately, Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies provides treatment for all ages.

How is wheezing treated?

The best way to treat wheezing depends on what’s causing it. In some cases, you may need supplemental oxygen to open your airways and make it easier to breathe. Dr. McDermott listens to your lungs and breathing and may also prescribe medications, such as antibiotics to resolve an infection or an inhaler to open your airways and reduce inflammation.

If your wheezing is more severe or your nails, mouth, or skin are turning blue, call 911 and seek immediate care. If you struggle to breathe after taking a new medication, eating food, or getting stung by an insect, it could indicate an allergic reaction requiring emergency treatment.

What at-home care can support my treatments for wheezing?

At-home care treatments may include:

• Breathing exercises, especially in a steamy shower or humid room for extra relief.
• Sipping hot tea
• Avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke
• Improving air quality with an air filter and humidifier
• Avoiding common triggers like pollen, dust, or pet dander

To get help with wheezing, schedule an appointment with Dr. McDermott at Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies today by calling the friendly office staff at the location nearest you or use the online booking feature now.