They occur when air moves through fluid-filled airways. Rales are further described as moist, dry, whistling, fine, coarse, or other descriptions. Rhonchi are sounds with a loud, low, coarser sound. They may be further described as musical, groaning, snoring , and so on. They are produced when the larger airways are filled with fluid.
Wheezes are high-pitched, musical sounds produced by narrowed airways, occurring during expiration.
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed. Abnormal breath sounds are usually discovered by the health care provider, and the affected person may or may not have been aware of its presence. The physical examination will include careful assessment of the lungs and breathing. The treatment depends on the underlying cause of the unusual lung sounds. Home Care Consult your health care provider.