The wheezing sound you hear while your child sleeps is caused by inflammation of the lower airways, according to the Mayo Clinic. Asthma, allergies, viral and bacterial infections can trigger symptoms of wheezing at night and after physical exertion. Consult with your doctor or an allergist for appropriate treatment options.
Identification
Wheezing is characterized by a high-pitched whistling sound when your child is breathing. The sound is most noticeable while your child exhales. Depending on the cause of the wheezing, this symptom is often accompanied by a cough, chest tightness, congestion and a fever. The cough associated with wheezing often worsens with physical activity or at night when your child is lying down.
Causes
Wheezing is a common symptom of asthma and allergies. Both asthma and allergies tend to run in families, so your child's risk of one of these conditions increases if one or both parents are affected by asthma or allergies. Asthma is an inflammatory disorder of the airways. Allergic rhinitis occurs from inhaling allergens and is most likely the type of allergies that cause wheezing for children. Common allergens that are inhaled at night are dust, mold, cockroach debris, pollen and pet dander. Viral infections that affect the lower respiratory tract cause wheezing. Respiratory syncytial virus, also known as RSV, and the flu can both result in wheezing. These illnesses can have complications that result in prolonged wheezing, such as pneumonia which is often bacterial, according to A.T. Still University.
Treatment
Your doctor will conduct a physical exam of your child's lungs and breathing to diagnose the cause of wheezing. If asthma or allergies are causing wheezing, an allergist will develop your child's treatment plan. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology explains that a short-acting beta-agonist inhaler is often prescribed to relieve wheezing at the time it occurs. Long-acting beta-agonist inhalers are taken with inhaled corticosteroids on a daily basis to control the symptoms. Antihistamines are most commonly used to control allergies. Some over-the-counter brands have a sedative effect, working to reduce symptoms and help children sleep at night. If a bacterial infection is causing the wheezing, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic. If a virus causes the wheezing, the illness will need to run its course.
Prevention
Avoid smoking around your children; secondhand smoke irritates the airways and increases your child's risk of breathing difficulties if he has asthma, allergies or a respiratory infection. Secondhand smoke also makes your child more prone to respiratory infections. All members of your household should wash their hands frequently and thoroughly to prevent the spread of infections. Keep your child away from people who appear to be sick. Thoroughly clean your child's bedroom to reduce asthma and allergy triggers. Keep windows closed, vacuum daily, frequently wash bedding in hot water and do not allow pets to sleep in your child's room.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Wheezing in Children: Could it Be Asthma
- Kids Health: Your Child's Cough
- A.T. Still University; Diagnosis Lower Respiratory Tract Infections; Neal R. Chamberlain, Ph. D; Jan. 7, 2010
- PubMed Health: Respiratory Syncytial Virus
- American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology: Childhood Asthma
