What is a common cause of wheezing in infants?

Wheezing in infants can be attributed to multiple factors, and the presence of various causes highlights the complexity of respiratory issues in this age group. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is one of the leading viral causes of wheezing and can lead to bronchiolitis, characterized by inflammation of the small airways, resulting in wheezing sounds as air moves through narrowed passages.

Environmental allergies can also play a significant role, as infants exposed to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander may experience bronchospasm and wheezing. Exposure to cigarette smoke is another critical factor, as it is known to irritate the respiratory system and can increase susceptibility to respiratory infections, which in turn can lead to wheezing.

The collective acknowledgment of these factors reinforces the understanding that multiple environmental and biological triggers can contribute to wheezing in infants, making the selection of all of the above a comprehensive and accurate choice.