Stridor is a medical term that refers to a high-pitched wheezing or squeaking sound that occurs during breathing when there is an obstruction or narrowing in the upper airway. It is often described as a harsh, crowing noise that can be heard when a person inhales (inspiratory stridor), exhales (expiratory stridor), or both.
Stridor can occur in people of all ages, from infants to adults, and it can be caused by various underlying conditions, including:
1. Croup: A viral infection that causes inflammation of the larynx (voice box) and trachea (windpipe), leading to narrowing of the airway.
2. Epiglottitis: Inflammation or swelling of the epiglottis, a flap of tissue that covers the trachea during swallowing, which can partially block the airway.
3. Foreign body aspiration: When a foreign object (such as a toy, food, or small object) becomes lodged in the throat or airway, causing obstruction.
4. Anaphylaxis: Severe allergic reaction that can cause swelling of the throat and airway, leading to breathing difficulties and stridor.
5. Laryngomalacia: A congenital condition in infants where the tissues of the larynx are soft and floppy, causing collapse of the airway during inhalation.
6. Subglottic stenosis: Narrowing of the subglottic area (the portion of the airway just below the vocal cords), often due to scarring from injury or intubation.
7. Tumors or growths: Benign or malignant growths in the throat or airway can cause obstruction and stridor.
Stridor is considered a medical emergency, especially if it is accompanied by difficulty breathing, drooling, cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin), or other signs of respiratory distress. Prompt evaluation and treatment are necessary to identify and address the underlying cause of stridor and ensure adequate breathing. Treatment may include medications (such as corticosteroids or epinephrine), airway management techniques, or surgical interventions, depending on the cause and severity of the stridor. If you or someone else experiences stridor, seek medical attention immediately.