Differential Diagnosis for Wheezy Cough

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis + Asthma: This is the most common cause of a wheezy cough, especially if the symptoms are recurrent, worse at night, or triggered by specific factors such as allergens or exercise. Asthma is characterized by inflammation, airway obstruction, and spasm of the bronchial tubes, leading to wheezing, cough, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
• Other Likely Diagnoses + Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): COPD can cause a wheezy cough, particularly in smokers or those with a history of smoking. It involves progressive lung damage leading to airflow limitation. + Bronchitis: Both acute and chronic bronchitis can present with a cough and wheezing. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a viral infection, while chronic bronchitis is often associated with smoking. + Allergic Rhinitis: Postnasal drip from allergic rhinitis can trigger coughing and wheezing, especially in individuals with allergies.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses + Pneumonia: Although less common, pneumonia can cause wheezing and cough, especially in severe cases or in specific populations like the elderly or immunocompromised individuals. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its potential severity and need for prompt antibiotic treatment. + Pulmonary Embolism: A pulmonary embolism can cause sudden onset of wheezing, cough, and shortness of breath. It's a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. + Foreign Body Aspiration: Especially in children, aspiration of a foreign body can lead to sudden onset of wheezing and cough. It's an emergency that needs prompt recognition and treatment.
• Rare Diagnoses + Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder that leads to severe respiratory and digestive problems. It can cause chronic cough and wheezing due to the production of thick, sticky mucus that clogs the airways. + Bronchiectasis: A condition characterized by damage to the airways, leading to their widening and scarring. It can cause a chronic cough and wheezing. + Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Churg-Strauss Syndrome): A rare autoimmune condition that can cause asthma-like symptoms, including wheezing and cough, along with other systemic symptoms.