Adventitious breath sounds are abnormal lung sounds heard in the chest, typically with a stethoscope.
They can provide clues that help diagnose pulmonary (relating to the lungs) orheart diseases.
Some adventitious breath sounds can be heard without the help of a stethoscope.
Verywell / Laura Porter
The person being examined is usually seated in a chair or on the side of the bed for auscultation.
Breath sounds will be different depending on which part of the lung the air is moving through.
Wheezes
Wheezingis a continuous and high-pitched whistling sound.
Wheezing sounds can sometimes be heard without a stethoscope.
The sound is similar to snoring.
Crackles/Rales
Crackles, also known asrales, occur during inhalation and are irregular.
The sound of crackles is generally high-pitched with clicking or rattling.
It may also sound like crumpled cellophane.
Crackles may be lower-pitched if the larger airways are affected.
They are because of smaller airways (and sometimes larger airways) snapping open when breathing in.
Stridor
This sound is resulting from the narrowing of the airways.
It is more common in children because their airways are softer and narrower.
Blood Tests
Ablood culturecan be used to test for bacteria in the bloodstream.
If more data are needed, additional tests such as a CT scan or ABGs may be ordered.
If you experience wheezing, especially if it is persistent, call your healthcare provider.
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