Crackles (also known as ) are abnormal, clicking, or rattling lung sounds heard through a stethoscope, typically caused by the sudden opening of small airways or air passing through fluid, mucus, or pus . These sounds are most often heard during inspiration (breathing in) and can be classified as either fine (high-pitched, short) or coarse (lower-pitched, longer-lasting). Common Causes of Crackles
New or worsening (dyspnea), especially when lying flat. Chest tightness or pain. A persistent cough . Crackles Lung Sounds Causes
: Conditions like pulmonary fibrosis cause scarring and stiffness; the crackles here are often "fine" and sound like Velcro being pulled apart. Crackles (also known as ) are abnormal, clicking,
Crackles (also known as ) are abnormal, clicking, or rattling lung sounds heard through a stethoscope, typically caused by the sudden opening of small airways or air passing through fluid, mucus, or pus . These sounds are most often heard during inspiration (breathing in) and can be classified as either fine (high-pitched, short) or coarse (lower-pitched, longer-lasting). Common Causes of Crackles
New or worsening (dyspnea), especially when lying flat. Chest tightness or pain. A persistent cough .
: Conditions like pulmonary fibrosis cause scarring and stiffness; the crackles here are often "fine" and sound like Velcro being pulled apart.