stridor

(strī′dŏr )

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(strī′dor″)
[L., stridor, rattling, buzzing]
A high-pitched, harsh sound occurring during inspiration, often heard without the use of a stethoscope. It is a sign of upper airway obstruction, which may indicate the presence of a life-threatening condition, e.g., epiglottitis. The lack of stridor should never be interpreted as a sign that the upper airway is patent in the patient with signs of having difficulty breathing.

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