Lung Sounds

Question 1

Normal breath sounds

Answer 1

Clear and quiet during inspiration and expiration

Question 2

Snoring breath sounds

Answer 2

Indicate simple, but dangerous upper airway obstruction usually caused by tongue or foreign body. Does not require a stethoscope

Question 3

Stridor

Answer 3

Heard before listening with stethoscope. Indicates airway obstruction in neck or upper part of chest. Expect to hear brassy, crowing sound on inspiration

Question 4

Wheezing

Answer 4

Suggests obstruction or narrowing of lower airway. High pitched whistling sound that is prominent on exportation. Lower airway sound heard through auscultation

Question 5

Crackles

Answer 5

Wet, crackling on inspiration and expiration may indicate fluid in lungs. Sound similar to Rice Krispies

Question 6

Rhonchi

Answer 6

Congested breath sounds suggests presence of mucus or fluid in lungs. Low pitched noisy sounds prominent on expiration. Similar to blowing bubbles under water. Often accompanied by a productive cough