Wheezing is a type of breathing difficulty that creates a shrill whistling sound due to narrowing of the airways. It can be a symptom of respiratory disease, including asthma, emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder. If wheezing occurs, forming a proper diagnosis is essential. Differentiating among the types of wheezing aids in providing a correct diagnosis.
Stridor
According to Medline, the high-pitched wheezing sounds of stridor are caused by blockage of the throat or larynx. It may indicate that a foreign object has blocked the airway, or it may be the result of an allergic reaction or infection. If a foreign object is present, it is essential to remove the object immediately to prevent the airway from being blocked completely.
Expiratory Wheezing
During expiratory wheezing, the whistling sound is made when exhaling. This type of wheezing may be present with other symptoms such as cough or shortness of breath. Expiratory wheezing is likely to indicate respiratory disease. Examples include asthma, COPD and pneumonia.
Wheezing on Exertion
Wheezing on exertion occurs during strenuous activities. It can be the result of pulmonary heart disease. In pulmonary heart disease, there is decreased blood flow to the lungs, causing difficulty breathing. According to Emedicine Health, wheezing on exertion can also be caused by exercise-induced asthma. Individuals suffering from exercise-induced asthma are often symptom free when at rest.
