What are rales?

Rales are abnormal lung sounds characterized by wet crackling noises heard during breathing, particularly during inhalation. These sounds typically indicate the presence of fluid in the airways or alveoli, which can be associated with conditions such as pneumonia, heart failure, or bronchitis.

Rales can often be detected during a physical examination using a stethoscope, and their presence can give healthcare providers important clues about a patient's respiratory status. The distinction of rales as wet and crackling is critical, as it highlights their specific nature compared to other lung sounds such as wheezes. This specificity assists clinicians in diagnosing and determining the appropriate treatment for underlying health issues.

The other options do not accurately describe rales: squeaky sounds would refer to a different type of lung sound, flatline sounds pertain to heart monitoring instead of lung sounds, and rapid heartbeats are related to cardiovascular responses rather than respiratory sounds. Understanding the correct definition of rales helps in the assessment and management of patients with respiratory conditions.