What does stridor mean in medical terms?
What does stridor mean in medical terms?
Stridor is an abnormal, high-pitched, musical breathing sound. It is caused by a blockage in the throat or voice box (larynx). It is most often heard when taking in a breath.
Why would a patient have stridor?
Stridor in adults is commonly caused by vocal cord paralysis; an unusual narrowing of the airway below the vocal cords called subglottic stenosis; inhaling a piece of food; or a foreign object stuck in the airway.
Where can stridor be found?
Stridor is a noisy or high-pitched sound with breathing. It is a sign that the upper airway is partially blocked. It may involve the nose, mouth, sinuses, voice box (larynx), or windpipe (trachea).
What is the location of the obstruction that causes stridor?
Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound caused by disrupted airflow. Stridor may also be called musical breathing or extrathoracic airway obstruction. Airflow is usually disrupted by a blockage in the larynx (voice box) or trachea (windpipe). Stridor affects children more often than adults.
Is stridor a medical emergency?
Inspiratory stridor is often a medical emergency. Assessment of vital signs and degree of respiratory distress is the first step. In some cases, securing the airway may be necessary before or in parallel with the physical examination.
What is the treatment for stridor?
Treatment may include: Referral to an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) Surgery, if the stridor is severe. Medicines by mouth or shots to help decrease the swelling in the airways or treat an infection.
Definition Stridor is a term used to describe noisy breathing in general, and to refer specifically to a high-pitched crowing sound associated with croup, respiratory infection, and airway obstruction.
What causes stridor ( musical breathing)?
Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound caused by disrupted airflow. Stridor may also be called musical breathing or extrathoracic airway obstruction. Airflow is usually disrupted by a blockage…
What happens if a child has stridor?
Children have narrower, softer airways than adults do. They’re much more likely to develop stridor. To prevent further blockage, treat the condition immediately. If the airway is completely blocked, your child won’t be able to breathe. How is stridor diagnosed? Your doctor will try to find the cause of you or your child’s stridor.
What should I do if I have stridor in the abdomen?
Stridor may be a sign of an emergency. Call your provider right away if there is unexplained stridor, especially in a child. In an emergency, the provider will check the person’s temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure, and may need to do abdominal thrusts. A breathing tube may be needed if…
