Wheezing as a sign of foreign-body aspiration in infants and children

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In an infant or child who has inhaled a small object, wheezing may be misinterpreted as a sign of respiratory infection, and accurate diagnosis may be delayed more than 24 hours. In this article, Dr Haines describes pertinent historical information and physical signs and symptoms that suggest foreign-body aspiration. He also discusses treatment options, including use of the Heimlich maneuver.