6 Natural Remedies to Control Wheezing

Wheezing refers to a high-pitched whistling sound that happens while you are breathing in or out. The reason behind wheezing is that the tightening of your airways causes it.

Your airways may tighten due to:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Asthma
• Medications
• Infections
• Allergies
• Anything leading to inflammation or swelling in your airways

However, if you are unsure about the reason behind wheezing, make an appointment with your doctor. It can help you rule out any conditions that may need immediate treatment.

In addition to the medication and prescription treatment your doctor recommends, many remedies can help you wheeze less.

Drink warm liquids

If the wheezing symptoms are caused by the mucous in your windpipe, a few warm liquids can be quite helpful. Drinking herbal tea or even warm water can help break down any stubborn mucus. It is important to stay hydrated as it helps in any congestion.

Inhale moist air

Inhaling moist steam or air is similar to drinking warm liquids. It can help loosen up mucus and congestion in your airways. As a result, it may make it easier for you to breathe. All you need to do is take a steamy, hot shower with closed doors or use a humidifier at home. You can also try to spend some time in a steam room. However, you must avoid the hot, dry air of a sauna.

Eat more veggies and fruits

A few chronic respiratory conditions may lead to wheezing symptoms. Researchers are trying to find out more and more about nutrition, which plays a good part in controlling these symptoms. It is found in the research that vitamin C comes with a protective effect on the respiratory system. However, the studies suggest that eating higher food in vitamin C appears more effective than taking the vitamin C supplement.

Quit smoking

In addition to irritating your airways, smoking may lead to severe wheezing in COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Secondhand smoke may lead to wheezing in others, especially children. According to the CDC, children exposed to secondhand smoke may have a higher risk of having severe asthma attacks. In addition, it may result in more respiratory infections compared to those exposed.

It would help if you avoided smoke from barbecue grills, fireplaces, and other non-tobacco sources, which can help in reducing wheezing.

Try pursed-lip breathing

Pursed lip breathing is a technique that helps to slow down the breathing rate and make each breath more effective by keeping the airways open for a longer time. When your breathing is effective, you should not work as hard to breathe. This technique can help improve any shortness of breath and help to reduce wheezing.

Do not exercise in dry, cold weather

For a few people, exercising in cold, dry weather may cause the airways to tighten up. As your breathing increases, you may start wheezing. It is known as exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. It can affect people who have chronic asthma and people who do not.

If you wheeze only during exercising in the cold conditions or your wheezing gets worse when you do it, try to move your workout indoors during the cold weather.

Warning signs

While wheezing itself is not life-threatening, it may be a symptom of conditions that you may be experiencing. If you have a young child or an infant who is wheezing or if you are having bouts of wheezing, consult a doctor. You must seek emergency medical care if you suffer from any of the following symptoms:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Trouble breathing
• Rapid breathing
• Chest pain
• Bluish tint on the skin

Conclusion

Wheezing happens in the case when your airways narrow down, usually in response to an irritation, illness, or an underlying condition. It is essential to work with your doctor if you are wheezing. The reason is that it can indicate a breathing problem. Once you work out a treatment plan with your doctor, you can use home remedies in addition to any prescribed medication that can help reduce the wheezing effects.

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