Page 105 - (DK) Home Doctor: Providing practical advice on home treatments

COMMON CONDITIONS: CHEST AND ABDOMINAL PROBLEMS 103

Wheezing

Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling as you breathe out. Your
WARNING
chest may feel tight and you may find it hard to breathe. The most
common cause is asthma; attacks are often an allergic reaction to Seek immediate medical help if:
inhaled substances such as dust, or are due to stress, cold air, or ● You begin to wheeze suddenly
or your lips or tongue turn blue
exercise. Other causes of wheezing include chest infection; tobacco
● You feel frightened by your
smoke; a severe allergic reaction; or a heart or lung problem. shortness of breath
See also Hay fever, p.80; Anaphylactic shock, p.159.

See your doctor first
PREVENTION
Arrange to see your doctor promptly if you are
wheezing. Check if you are taking drugs that Reducing allergens in the home
may cause wheezing, such as anti-inflammatory Many people with asthma are allergic to the droppings
analgesics or blood pressure medications. of dust mites. Other triggers include mold, fur and
dander (flakes of skin) from pets, and household
chemicals. Take these steps to reduce triggers.
What you can do yourself ● Dust surfaces with a damp cloth and try to reduce
clutter in your home. Don’t have too many soft toys
These measures will help relieve or prevent for a child with asthma. Every 2 weeks, put them in
asthma attacks, or wheezing due to other causes, a bag in the freezer for 6 hours, or wash with hot water.
and support any treatment from your doctor. ● Use pillows and comforters with synthetic fillings,
and covers that protect users from dust mites. Buy a
● When an asthma attack begins, try to keep calm mattress cover that fits over the whole mattress, not
and breathe slowly. Sit in a comfortable position; just the top. Wash bedding weekly at 140°F (60°C).
you may find it helpful to lean forward and rest Clean curtains regularly or replace them with blinds.
your arms on a table or the back of a chair. ● Replace carpets with wooden or vinyl flooring, if
possible, or choose short-pile synthetic carpets.
● If you use an asthma inhaler, keep it with you
● Vacuum regularly; use a high-powered cleaner with
at all times and use it as directed. Keep extra a filter. Ask someone else to empty the machine.
inhalers at home and at work or school. ● Keep your home well ventilated. Keep kitchen and
● If stress makes wheezing worse, try practicing bathroom doors closed to prevent dampness from
spreading. Treat any mold on tiles, shower curtains,
deep breathing and muscle relaxation exercises and bathroom windows with a weak bleach solution.
(see PRACTICAL TECHNIQUES, pp.20–21). You can also Avoid using chemicals with strong fumes.
use them to calm yourself during an asthma attack.
● If you’re allergic to a pet, you may have to give it
● Regular exercise, such as walking and swimming up. If you can’t, keep the pet out of your bedroom
in a heated pool, can improve symptoms and keep completely and out of main living areas as much as
you fit, as long as they don’t make wheezing worse. possible. Have your pet groomed or bathed regularly.
● Keep out of cold air; if you have to go out, wrap
a scarf loosely around your face to warm the air as
you breathe. When the air pollution level is high,
stay indoors and keep doors and windows closed. Seek further medical advice
Arrange to see your doctor if:
● Avoid smoky or dusty environments and
allergens that might provoke an asthma attack ● You cannot control asthma or other
(see PREVENTION, right). If you smoke, stop. wheezing attacks using these measures