What is stridor?

Stridor is characterized as a harsh or high-pitched respiratory sound that occurs when there is turbulent airflow through a narrowed or obstructed airway. It is often best heard during inhalation and can indicate serious conditions such as laryngeal obstruction or swelling. Stridor can occur in various clinical situations, such as in cases of croup, foreign body aspiration, or anaphylaxis, where airway obstruction results in this distinct sound.

In contrast, soothing respiratory sounds might describe normal breath sounds that are typically gentle and rhythmic rather than harsh or high-pitched. Normal breathing sounds are those that indicate proper airflow without obstruction, which is distinct from stridor. A sound made during coughing is generally a different phenomenon, often associated with clearing the airways rather than indicating obstruction. Thus, the identification of stridor as a harsh or high-pitched sound is distinct and clinically significant, reflecting underlying airway concerns.