What are lung sounds that resemble low-pitched snoring or rattling called?

Lung sounds that resemble low-pitched snoring or rattling are known as rhonchi. These sounds typically occur when airflow is obstructed in the larger airways due to secretions or other blockages. Rhonchi are often described as a musical or moaning quality and are usually heard during expiration, although they may be present during inhalation as well. This characteristic helps differentiate rhonchi from other lung sounds.

In practice, if an EMT hears rhonchi during a patient assessment, it may indicate that the patient has bronchospasm or an accumulation of mucus in the airways, which could be associated with conditions like bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Recognizing these sounds is critical in forming a treatment plan, as they suggest the need for interventions such as suctioning or the administration of bronchodilators to help clear the airways.