Wheezy children

Abstract

Wheeze is one of the most common presentations in children, with evidence that up to half of all children experience an episode by 6 years of age. Wheezing is transient in the majority of cases; however, some children develop recurrent symptoms. Different phenotypes have been recognised based on symptoms patterns, physiologic measurements and risk factors. Childhood wheezing is particularly relevant to general practice, as about a quarter of pre-school-aged children present with wheeze annually. This article aims to explain the pathophysiology and differential diagnoses of wheezing, focusing on common presentations of wheeze that can be managed in the community.