What distinguishes stridor from wheezing?

• A. Stridor occurs in the upper airway
• B. Wheezing is associated with the upper airway
• C. Stridor is a sign of lower airway obstruction
• D. Wheezing indicates tracheal issues

Answer: (A)

The distinction between stridor and wheezing primarily lies in the location of the airway obstruction they represent. Stridor is characterized by a harsh, high-pitched sound that is typically heard during inspiration, indicating an obstruction in the upper airway. This can occur due to various conditions affecting the larynx or trachea, such as croup, epiglottitis, or a foreign body obstruction.

On the other hand, wheezing is a lower-pitched, musical sound that occurs primarily during expiration and is associated with lower airway obstruction, commonly related to conditions like asthma or bronchitis. Since stridor specifically indicates issues located in the upper airway, recognizing this distinction is crucial in clinical practice to guide appropriate management and intervention.