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This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy editorial process and privacy policy. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. is accredited by URAC, for Health Content Provider (URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. Wheezing and other abnormal sounds can sometimes be heard without a stethoscope.Ī.D.A.M., Inc. They are most often heard when a person breathes out (exhales). High-pitched sounds produced by narrowed airways. Usually it is due to a blockage of airflow in the windpipe (trachea) or in the back of the throat. Wheeze-like sound heard when a person breathes. They occur when air is blocked or air flow becomes rough through the large airways. Rales can be further described as moist, dry, fine, and coarse. They are believed to occur when air opens closed air spaces. They are heard when a person breathes in (inhales). Small clicking, bubbling, or rattling sounds in the lungs.

There are several types of abnormal breath sounds. Over-inflation of a part of the lungs ( emphysema can cause this).Air or fluid in or around the lungs (such as pneumonia, heart failure, and pleural effusion).Using a stethoscope, the health care provider may hear normal breathing sounds, decreased or absent breath sounds, and abnormal breath sounds. Normal lung sounds occur in all parts of the chest area, including above the collarbones and at the bottom of the rib cage. The lung sounds are best heard with a stethoscope.

What causes diminished lung sounds