Wheezing (other than Asthma)

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Symptom Definition

• A high-pitched purring or whistling sound produced during breathing out.
• Rapid breathing rate is commonly associated (more than 60 breaths/minute if less than 2 months, more than 50 if 2-12 months and more than 40 if 1-5 years).
• Use this guideline only if the child has never been treated for asthma.

Cause

• Main cause in the first 2 years of life: bronchiolitis (peaks at 6-12 months). This is a viral infection (RSV) of the small airways (bronchioles).
• Main cause: after age 3, may be the first attack of asthma.

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• Previous diagnosis of asthma, see ASTHMA ATTACK.