Which sound indicates swelling of the upper airway?

Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound that is typically indicative of an obstruction or swelling in the upper airway, which can often occur in situations like anaphylaxis, croup, or foreign body aspiration. This sound is produced when airflow is disrupted due to narrowing or blockage in the larynx or trachea.

Recognizing stridor is crucial for emergency responders, as it signifies potential respiratory distress and warrants immediate evaluation and intervention to secure the airway. In contrast, the other sounds mentioned—rales, wheezing, and rhonchi—are associated with different conditions, primarily reflecting issues in the lower airway or lung fields rather than the upper airway. Rales typically indicate fluid in the alveoli, wheezing is more associated with bronchospasm or constriction, and rhonchi are related to secretions in larger airways. Understanding the specific sounds and their implications helps EMTs assess the degree of respiratory compromise and respond appropriately.