Breathing sounds, abnormal

Alternative names:

stridor

Definition:

An abnormal, high-pitched, musical breathing sound caused by a blockage in the throat or larynx; usually heard when inhaling. Also see wheezing and abnormal lung sounds.

Considerations:

Children are at higher risk of airway obstruction because they have narrower airways than adults. In young children, stridor is a significant sign of airway obstruction and must be treated immediately in order to prevent total airway obstruction.

The airway can be obstructed by an object, by swelling of the tissues of the throat or upper airway, or by spasm of the airway muscles or the vocal cords.

Common causes:

• inhalation of an object such as a peanut or marble (foreign body aspiration)
• laryngitis (acute)
• airway trauma
• allergic reaction
• croup
• enlarged tonsils or adenoids (such as with tonsillitis)
• abscess on the tonsils
• inhalation injury (such as smoke inhalation)
• neck surgery
• neck or face swelling
• secretions, particularly phlegm (sputum)
• vocal cord cancer
• prolonged intubation (breathing tube)
• diagnostic tests such as bronchoscopy or laryngoscopy

Note: There may be other causes of stridor. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for stridor, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.