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Symptoms Print

Wheezing

Basics In-depth Resources

Causes Advertisement
Definition
By Mayo Clinic Staff
Causes

When to see a doctor Inflammation and narrowing of the airway in any location, from
your throat out into your lungs, can result in wheezing.

Products and services The most common causes of recurrent wheezing are asthma and
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which both cause
narrowing and spasms (bronchospasms) in the small airways of
your lungs.

However, any inflammation in your throat or larger airways can

cause wheezing. Common causes include infection, an allergic
reaction or a physical obstruction, such as a tumor or a foreign
object that's been inhaled.
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mission.
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Medications (particularly aspirin)
Sleep apnea, obstructive (a condition in which breathing
stops and starts during sleep)
Pneumonia
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) — especially in young
children
Respiratory tract infection (especially in children younger
than 2)
Smoking
Vocal cord dysfunction (a condition that affects vocal cord
movement)

Causes shown here are commonly associated with this

symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care
professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Definition When to see a doctor

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Jan. 11, 2018

References

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Newsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter

See also
Acute bronchitis: Is it contagious?
Albuterol side effects
Allergies
Allergies and asthma
Allergy medications: Know your options
Allergy-proof your home
Alpha-gal syndrome

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