10 Effective Home Remedies to Get Rid of Wheezing Quickly

Wheezing can be a distressing symptom, often indicating an underlying respiratory issue that requires prompt attention. However, there are several natural and effective home remedies you can try to alleviate wheezing and find relief.

Home Remedies for Wheezing

1. Gargling with Salt Water

Gargling with salt water can help reduce swelling in the throat, thereby easing coughing. Dissolve about 1 to 2 teaspoons of sea salt in a cup of warm water and gargle for 30 to 60 seconds. Spit out the solution after gargling.

2. Sucking on Cough Drops

Cough drops, especially those containing menthol, can provide temporary relief by cooling your throat and breathing passages. Suck one lozenge every couple of hours as needed.

3. Running a Humidifier

Maintaining moist air in your home can help break up mucus and reduce coughing. Add a few drops of essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, ginger, or camphor to the humidifier for an additional therapeutic effect. Alternatively, a warm shower can help moisten nasal passages and calm your wheezing cough.

4. Getting Plenty of Rest

Rest is crucial for recovery from any illness. Make time to get at least eight hours of sleep every night. Naps during the day may also be beneficial.

5. Wearing a Mask when Outside

Environmental irritants like pollution, chemicals, and smoke can exacerbate wheezing. Wearing a mask when exposed to such irritants, especially cigarette smoke, can help. Consider quitting smoking for long-term relief. Discuss smoking cessation options with your doctor.

6. Eating Smaller Meals

If your wheezing is caused by GERD, eating smaller, more frequent meals can help. Avoid large, heavy meals and opt for nutritious, smaller portions. Also, avoid eating right before bedtime to aid digestion.

Increasing Your Fluid Intake

1. Drinking Lots of Water

Poised with plenty of fluids, your body can recover more efficiently. Aim to drink between eight to 10 cups of water a day. You can also include a cup or two of juice, focusing on water as the primary fluid source.

2. Sipping Herbal Teas

Herbal teas such as slippery elm, garlic, peppermint, spearmint, ginger, or a mix of cayenne and black pepper (in small amounts) can help hydrate and provide therapeutic benefits. Steep herbs in boiling water for about five minutes, then sip gradually.

3. Mix Warm Water with Honey and Lemon

A mixture of warm water, honey, and lemon juice can notably loosen mucus and reduce coughing. Honey is soothing but should be avoided in infants under one year old.

4. Consume Soups and Broths

Soups and broths are excellent for increasing fluid intake and soothing a sore throat. Chicken noodle, vegetable, or beef broth can be beneficial.

5. Make a Turmeric and Milk Latte

To relieve coughing, try a traditional remedy by mixing 1 teaspoon of turmeric with one cup of warm milk. Alternatively, mix it with almond, rice, or hemp milk for a dairy-free option.

Seeking Medical Attention

1. Know When to Seek Medical Attention

If your symptoms persist for more than a few days or if you have a cough lasting over four weeks unknown cause, it's time to consult a doctor. Additional symptoms like thick and greenish-yellow phlegm, wheezing sounds, fever over 104°F, or shortness of breath warrant immediate medical attention.

2. Emergency Room for Severe Symptoms

If you experience severe symptoms such as choking, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or blood in your phlegm, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Shortness of breath after speaking a few words is another urgent sign.

3. Medication Consultation with Your Doctor

Your doctor can recommend appropriate medications, such as antihistamines, cough suppressants, decongestants, expectorants, or bronchodilators depending on the cause of your cough.

By following these tips and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can effectively manage and alleviate your wheezing symptoms and improve your overall well-being.