Quick answer
Wheezing is a high-pitched breathing sound that can happen when the airways narrow. A detailed assessment helps tell asthma and other airway conditions apart from infections or other causes of noisy breathing.
What is wheezing?
Wheezing is a high-pitched breathing sound that can occur when the airways narrow.
How is the cause identified?
A detailed assessment can help distinguish asthma and other airway conditions from infections or other causes of noisy breathing.
Not for emergencies. If breathing difficulty is severe or getting worse quickly, call 998 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Common questions
When should I see a specialist about wheezing?
Book a specialist assessment if symptoms are persistent, keep coming back, affect daily activities or sleep, or are not improving as expected with current treatment.
Is this an emergency?
Yes, if breathing difficulty is severe or getting worse quickly, or you have chest pain or are coughing up blood. Call 998 or go to the nearest emergency department. A clinic appointment is not the right route for emergencies.
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