Which respiratory condition is characterized by a whistling sound due to narrowed airways?

Prepare for the AAPC Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC) Exam with our comprehensive question sets. Dive into flashcards and detailed multiple choice questions, each with insights and explanations. Enhance your coding skills and excel in your exam!

The whistling sound associated with narrowed airways is referred to as a wheeze. Wheezing occurs when the airways become constricted or obstructed, leading to turbulent airflow and the characteristic high-pitched sound during breathing, especially during expiration. This sound can be heard in various conditions, particularly in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and allergic reactions, where airway inflammation and narrowing occur.

In contrast, bronchitis involves inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often leading to productive cough and mucus, but it does not specifically highlight the wheezing sound as a defining feature. Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the throat, which does not typically involve wheezing. Hyaline Membrane Disease, commonly known as neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, primarily affects premature infants and involves issues related to surfactant deficiency in the lungs, not typically described by wheezing.

Thus, the whistling sound due to narrowed airways is classically described as wheezing, making this the correct response.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy