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What Causes Wheezing in Babies and When to Worry

Wheezing in babies can manifest as a sharp, whistle-like sound coming from the chest when they breathe. When the lower respiratory tract of the baby is affected, resulting in the narrowing down of airways, a wheezing or whistling sound is produced. There are several triggers or causes leading to wheezing in babies. Read on to learn more about this.

Reasons Why Your Baby Is Wheezing?

Your baby may wheeze due to the following causes:

• Asthma

Asthma causes wheezing in babies. The sensitive airways of babies with asthma can produce a whistling sound when exposed to pollutants or irritants like smoke, dust, etc.

• Allergies

Babies allergic to substances like pollen or dust may start wheezing when exposed to such irritants. Their immune system mistakenly assumes these irritants to be foreign invaders. Such a misdirected immune response may cause the baby's airways to narrow down, leading to wheezing.

• Infections

Lower respiratory tract infections of the chest, such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis, may cause your baby to wheeze.

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Babies with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can experience wheezing if small amounts of stomach acids are breathed into their lungs.

Other less common causes of wheezing in babies include:

• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic condition mostly affecting premature babies with underdeveloped lungs at birth. Babies with this condition can wheeze while breathing. Such babies may need additional oxygen support for a few months after birth.

• Accidental lodging of foreign bodies

If a baby has accidentally inhaled a foreign body, it may block the airways, causing a wheezing sound. This may result in other symptoms like choking or shortness of breath. The situation is a medical emergency, and therefore, you must seek immediate help.

Conclusion

Wheezing can occur for various reasons, some of which might be serious. Therefore, do not delay seeing a doctor if your baby starts wheezing.

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Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on May 27, 2025