International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

What describes the sound known as stridor?

1. A soft wheezing sound while breathing

2. A high-pitched sound caused by disrupted air flow

3. A low rumbling sound during expiration

4. A constant whistling noise when at rest

The correct answer is: A high-pitched sound caused by disrupted air flow

Stridor is characterized by a high-pitched sound that occurs during breathing, specifically when there is an obstruction or disruption in the airflow, usually in the upper airway. This sound often arises when there is inflammation, such as in cases of croup or anaphylaxis, which narrows the airway and causes turbulent airflow. The nature of stridor is distinguishable from other respiratory sounds. For instance, wheezing is typically a lower-pitched sound associated with narrowed airways, often heard in asthma, while the low rumbling sound during expiration is characteristic of other conditions. Additionally, the constant whistling noise typically does not represent the acute nature or the high frequency of stridor, further solidifying the uniqueness of stridor as a high-pitched sound indicative of potential airway obstruction or compromise. Understanding this distinction is crucial for lactation consultants, as it can influence how they assess a mother and baby’s respiratory status and the potential need for further medical evaluation.