What are the most common causes for wheezing in non-smokers?

Wheezing is a clinical symptom which is a result of breathing through narrowed or inflamed airways.

The most common causes of wheezing are:

1. Asthma
2. Allergies and allergic responses
3. Blockage by a foreign body
4. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
5. Anxiety and panic attacks
6. Bronchitis and bronchiolitis, caused by viral or bacterial infections
7. Pneumonia
8. Heart disease and heart failure

Please seek medical attention immediately if you experience wheezing and breathlessness as it may be a medical emergency.

Best regards

Dr Quah