Medical Health Encyclopedia

The physical examination may include listening to the lung sounds (auscultation). The possibility that foreign material has been swallowed may also be investigated in small children.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed are:

• Chest x-ray
• Pulmonary function tests
• Blood studies, possibly including arterial blood gases

Treatment:

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Drugs to relieve narrowing of the airways, such as albuterol, are usually given by inhalation. Hospitalization may be required if the patient's breathing is particularly difficult, or if close observation by medical personnel, intravenous medications, supplemental oxygen are required. In any case, the patient will need to be closely watched.

If a diagnosis is made related to wheezing such as asthma or COPD, further action to treat and manage the condition will be needed.