How to Detect Respiratory Warning Signs at Home

Respiratory disorders can affect people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Untreated lung and respiratory problems can cause more serious illnesses in the long term, such as acute bronchitis, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia and tuberculosis. Be aware of respiratory warning signs to prevent more severe problems and even premature death. Some respiratory warning signs are easier to detect than others.

Things You'll Need

• Stethoscope

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Instructions

• 1

  Be alert to excessive coughing and wheezing while breathing. People who have trouble breathing may instinctively cough in attempts to clean out the airways and make breathing easier. Clearing the throat excessively may also indicate respiratory problems.

• 2

  Lay your ear against the person's chest or back and listen for wheezing. Have the person take a deep breath and listen closely for crackling, whistling and wheezing sounds coming from within the lungs. If you happen to have a stethoscope at home, use the device to listen for these noises.

• 3

  Observe the patient for signs indicating he is struggling to breathe. Listen and watch for gasping, increased breathing rates and excessive deep breaths that may indicate the person is having trouble getting enough oxygen in his lungs.

• 4

  Watch the patient for sweating on the head, checking for skin that feels cool and clammy instead of hot. This indicates trouble with breathing, especially when it occurs in conjunction with an increased breathing rate.

• 5

  Examine the patient's mouth, lips, fingers and toes for bluish discolorations. A bluish color indicates a lowered breathing rate and the lack of necessary oxygen to various parts of the body.

• 6

  Measure the patient's respiration rate. Simply count the number of whole breaths the person takes in a minute and compare the amount to the average rate for a healthy person of the same age. This information can be found online. The average rate varies according to age and other health conditions, with younger children and infants having significantly higher averages than elderly people.