Which lung sound is commonly associated with asthma and COPD?

Wheezing is a high-pitched, musical sound produced during breathing, particularly when exhaling. It occurs due to the narrowing or obstruction of the airways, which is characteristic of conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In asthma, the airways can become constricted due to allergic reactions, inflammation, and bronchospasm, leading to wheezing as air moves through these narrowed passages. Similarly, in COPD, chronic bronchitis and emphysema can contribute to airflow limitation and wheezing. This sound is often a clear indicator of respiratory distress and is an important sign for healthcare providers to recognize in these conditions.

In contrast, other sounds like crackles are generally associated with fluid in the alveoli, rhonchi suggest thick mucus in the airways, and creaking sounds are not typically used to describe common lung sounds associated with asthma or COPD. Wheezes, therefore, are the most relevant and indicative of the pathological processes occurring in both asthma and COPD.