Rhonchi are usually caused by mucus or other secretions in the larger airways of the lungs, such as the bronchi or trachea. These secretions can obstruct airflow, leading to the characteristic rattling sound.
Here's a breakdown of what it means:
* Rhonchi refers specifically to the sound.
* Rhonchus is the singular form of the word.
* Rhonchal is an adjective used to describe something related to rhonchi, such as "rhonchal wheezes".
Causes of rhonchi include:
* Bronchitis
* Pneumonia
* Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
* Asthma
* Cystic fibrosis
* Foreign body in the airway
* Tumors
It's important to note:
* Rhonchi are just one symptom and don't necessarily indicate a serious condition.
* If you hear rhonchi, it's important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause.
In summary, rhonchi is a specific type of lung sound that indicates an obstruction in the larger airways, typically caused by mucus or other secretions.