What type of lung sound is characterized by harsh vibrations caused by obstruction?

Stridor is a high-pitched, harsh sound that is primarily caused by an obstruction in the upper airway. It occurs during inspiration and indicates that there may be narrowing or blockage of air in the larynx, trachea, or large airways. This sound is typically associated with conditions such as croup in children or anaphylaxis in adults, where inflammation or swelling blocks airflow.

The presence of stridor suggests a significant airway compromise and is a critical sign for healthcare providers to recognize, as it often indicates the need for immediate intervention to secure the air passage. The other types of lung sounds reflect different underlying issues; for example, wheezes are whistling sounds associated with bronchoconstriction, crackles are related to fluid in the alveoli or small airways, and rhonchi are low-pitched sounds that often occur due to secretions in the larger airways.