Symptom
Wheezing:CausesandRedFlags
Wheezing is a whistling sound heard during exhalation and is common in young children because their airways are relatively narrow. It's most often linked to viral infections.
0-24 mo4 min readUpdated: 2026-08-30
Causes of Wheezing
Wheezing most often develops from viral lower respiratory infections like bronchiolitis; in recurring cases, asthma is also a possible cause.
Related Symptoms
- Cough
- Mild fever
- Rapid breathing
Related Conditions
- Bronchiolitis
- Asthma (in recurring cases)
- Upper respiratory infection
Red Flags
- Difficulty breathing
- Bluish skin
- Complete refusal to feed
If red flags such as breathing difficulty, bluish skin, or refusal to feed appear, see a healthcare provider right away.
Sources
WHO ICD-11American Academy of PediatricsCDC