Stridor

Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound caused by disrupted airflow. Stridor may also refer to a harsh, vibrating noise when breathing, caused by a narrowed or blocked airway. It is most noticeable during inhalation, but can also occur during exhalation.

Causes

Stridor is usually caused by narrowing or blockage of the airways. This can be due to a variety of conditions, including:

• Congenital abnormalities: These are problems that are present at birth, such as laryngomalacia, tracheomalacia, or vascular rings.
• Infections: Infections can cause inflammation and swelling in the airways, leading to stridor. Examples include croup, epiglottitis, and bacterial tracheitis.
• Foreign body aspiration: This occurs when a foreign object is inhaled into the airways, causing blockage and stridor.
• Tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors in the airways can cause stridor.
• Trauma: Injury to the airways, such as from a burn or inhalation of a harmful substance, can cause stridor.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of stridor involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Additional tests may include:

• X-ray: This can show if there is a blockage in the airways.
• CT scan: This provides a more detailed image of the airways and can help identify tumors or other abnormalities.
• Laryngoscopy: This involves using a small, flexible tube with a light and camera to examine the throat and voice box.
• Pulmonary function tests: These tests measure how well the lungs are working and can help determine the severity of the stridor.

Treatment

Treatment for stridor depends on the underlying cause. Options may include:

• Medication: Drugs to reduce inflammation and open the airways can be helpful.
• Surgery: If the stridor is caused by a structural problem, such as a tumor or congenital abnormality, surgery may be necessary.
• Speech therapy: This can help improve breathing techniques and reduce symptoms in some cases.

See also

• Wheezing
• Dyspnea
• Cough

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