Respiratory

Question 1

What are sibilant wheezes? When are they heard? What causes them?

Answer 1

High-pitched whistle on expiration.
Asthma, COPD exacerbation

Question 2

What are ronchi? When are they heard? What causes them?

Answer 2

Low-pitched rumble/wheeze.
Located at the bronchi on inspiration/expiration.
COPD, pneumonia, bronchitis, cystic fibrosis.

Question 3

What are stridor? When are they heard? What causes them?

Answer 3

High-pitched whistle on inspiration.
Croup, epiglottitis, thyroid surgery, airway obstruction

Question 4

What are fine crackles? When are they heard? What causes them?

Answer 4

High-pitched crackles on inspiration.
Lung edema, ARDS, CHF

Question 5

What are rales? When are they heard? What causes them?

Answer 5

Coarse, low-pitched crackles on inspiration and expiration.
Pneumonia

Question 6

What are pleural friction rubs? When are they heard? What causes them?

Answer 6

Low-pitched dry rubbing on inspiration and expiration.
Pleuritis, worsening pneumonia

Question 7

What is it called when there are increases and decreases in respiratory depth? What is the cause and treatments?

Answer 7

Cheyne-stokes.
causes: ICP, stroke, worsening CHF, ESRD.
Tx: mechanical ventilation or intubation.