Rales vs. Stridor — What's the Difference?

An abnormal respiratory sound characterized by fine crackles.

Stridor (Latin for "creaking or grating noise") is a high-pitched extra-thoracic breath sound resulting from turbulent air flow in the larynx or lower in the bronchial tree. It is different from a stertor which is a noise originating in the pharynx.

Plural of rale

A harsh, shrill, grating, or creaking sound.

(medicine) Abnormal clicking, rattling or crackling sound heard from the lungs, often audible only with a stethoscope.

(Medicine) A harsh, high-pitched sound in inhalation or exhalation.

A harsh, shrill, unpleasant noise.

(medicine) A high-pitched sound heard on inspiration resulting from turbulent air flow in the upper airway usually indicative of serious airway obstruction.

A harsh, shrill, or creaking noise.

A whistling sound when breathing (usually heard on inspiration); indicates obstruction of the trachea or larynx