Difficulties in the airways are explained by doctors at Great Ormond Street Hospital in our A-Z series on health
Wheeziness is caused by narrowing of the airways and is usually a symptom of asthma or bronchiolitis (infection of the smaller airways). Over the past 30 years asthma has become increasingly prevalent in children aged two to 15, and today it affects one in seven children in the UK.
One of the more convincing theories for this rise is the 'hygiene hypothesis' which claims that because children today are less exposed to environmental germs, they have a poorer immune system for fighting infections.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
