- Wheeze can be caused by viruses and the common cold and other trigger factors. It is very common. Up to half of all children will have had at least one wheezy episode in their preschool years.
- Wheeze is a high pitched or whistling sound that is caused by a cough or cold creating swelling and sticky mucus in the airways. The sound is caused by air that is forced through airways (breathing tubes) that are narrower than normal. The wheeze should improve as the viral infection gets better with treatment.
- Wheeze caused by viruses is more common in children under 2 years old as their airways are much smaller than an older child or adult.
Select the play button above to listen to an example of a wheeze.
