wheeze

Wheeze is a musical, high-pitched whistling sound produced by turbulent airflow through narrowed airways during breathing. It is typically heard on exhalation but may occur on inspiration if the airway obstruction is above the lower airways or is severe. Wheezes are most often detected by listening with a stethoscope; in some cases they can be audible to the naked ear, particularly in children or during severe obstruction.

Causes include asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchitis, bronchiolitis, bronchiectasis, allergic reactions, viral infections, heart failure with edema, and foreign body aspiration. Less common: tumors, airway compression from enlarged structures, or anaphylaxis. Wheeze can be intermittent or persistent and may vary with activity, postural changes, or treatment.

Distinguishing sounds: wheeze is a high-pitched musical sound; rhonchi are rough, rattling sounds; crackles are brief pops. The presence and character of wheeze, along with other symptoms, guide further evaluation.

Evaluation may involve medical history, physical examination, spirometry with bronchodilator response, peak flow measurements, chest imaging, and, rarely, bronchoscopy. Treatment targets the underlying cause and may include inhaled bronchodilators, anti-inflammatory therapy, mucus clearance, antibiotics for infections, and, in acute settings, oxygen and airway support. Foreign body removal or emergency treatment is needed in life-threatening obstruction.

Prognosis depends on the underlying condition; with proper management, many causes of wheeze improve, though chronic diseases like asthma or COPD may require ongoing care. When new, worsening, or associated with severe shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, or poor oxygenation, urgent medical evaluation is recommended.