stridor

Full Definition

Stridor is an abnormal, high-pitched respiratory sound resulting from turbulent air flow in the upper airway. It can be inspiratory (most common, suggesting supraglottic or glottic obstruction), expiratory (suggesting tracheal or bronchial obstruction), or biphasic (suggesting fixed obstruction at or below the vocal cords). In pediatric patients, stridor often indicates serious airway compromise and requires immediate evaluation. Common causes include croup, epiglottitis, foreign body aspiration, vocal cord paralysis, and subglottic stenosis. The sound is typically audible without a stethoscope and indicates significant airway narrowing.

Usage

Usage note: Distinguish from wheeze (lower airway) and stertor (upper airway snoring sound).

In Context

• "The infant presented with inspiratory stridor and increased work of breathing." — Emergency department assessment
• "Biphasic stridor in a newborn may indicate congenital subglottic stenosis." — Otolaryngology consultation