What causes an abnormal lung sound?
You may experience difficulties identifying the different types of abnormal lung sounds. It can also be challenging to identify the causes of each type. Rhonchi and Rales are usually caused by fluid accumulation and infections in the lungs. It would help to know that some conditions are responsible for the sounds. Diseases that result in rhonchi and Rales are:
- Pneumonia [1]
- Bronchitis
- Respiratory infections that cause mucus buildup
- Chronic lung diseases like COPD
Rales are more likely to be caused by these conditions:
- Pulmonary edema [2]
- Asthma [3]
- Heart failure
Rhonchi is more likely to be caused by these diseases:
- Cystic fibrosis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Bronchiectasis
Your doctor will start to search for the causes immediately if any of these sounds are detected. The following imaging tests are recommended:
- Chest X-ray
- Breathing difficulties such as spirometry
- Blood tests to observe any infection or imbalances in the body