Get information about COVID-19 vaccinations, testing and visiting standards. Learn More.

Patient & Family Education Materials

Start over with a New Search

Definition: Wheezing

Article Translations: (Spanish)

Wheezing

A wheeze is a high-pitched whistling sound made when air flows through narrowed airways in the lungs, usually when people breathe out. Wheezing is a common symptom in people who have asthma, although people can wheeze for reasons other than asthma. A doctor can listen for wheezing through a stethoscope, but sometimes wheezing can be heard even without a stethoscope.

Back To Top

Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

© 1995-2024 KidsHealth ® All rights reserved. Images provided by iStock, Getty Images, Corbis, Veer, Science Photo Library, Science Source Images, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com