Rhonchi Lung Sounds

Introduction

On this page we provide a definition of rhonchi, including its clinical significance. We then compare it to rales, with audio recordings and text. Finally, we summarize the rhonchi training lessons available on this site.

Our rhonchi lesson can be found in our Fundamentals of Lung Sounds (a free course). Secondly, our reference index is designed to provide quick access to stridor sounds, with audio tracks, listening guides and waveforms. Use this link for quick reference to heart and lung sounds.

Rhonchi Definition

Rhonchi are continuous low-pitched, rattling lung sounds that often resemble snoring. Obstruction or secretions in larger airways are frequent causes of rhonchi. They can be heard in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis, pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, or cystic fibrosis. Rhonchi usually clear, at least briefly, after coughing.

Audio

Listen for lower pitched, snoring or rattle-like sounds. Rhonchi are continuous sounds usually heard during expiration.

Audio Playback

patient torso with stethoscope chestpiece

The patient's position should be seated.

Waveform

Compare To Rales

Rhonchi can be compared to rales using this audio playback buttons. Listen for rales which are discontinuous, popping sounds similar to Velcro being pulled apart.

The patient's position should be seated.

Free Course Covering Rhonchi

Our basic course on lung sounds, free with registration (no credit card needed) presents a lesson on rhonchi along with many other commonly heard breath sounds.

Quick Links to Other Breath Sounds

While we have many breath sound lessons and quick references on this website. Please use the links below.

Vesicular Breath Sounds
Bronchial Breath Sounds
Adventitious Breath Sounds
Adventitious Lung Sounds
Wheezing
Fine and Coarse Crackles
Rales
Egophony
How to use a stethoscope Auscultation Lung Sounds Audio

Rhonchi Lesson

A lesson on rhonchi sounds is included in our Basics of Lung Sounds course. We suggest taking the full course (about 15-20 minutes), but the lesson can be used without the full course.

Authors and Reviewers

Heart sounds by Dr. Jonathan Keroes, MD and David Lieberman, Developer, Virtual Cardiac Patient.
Lung sounds by Diane Wrigley, PA
Respiratory cases: William French
David Lieberman, Audio Engineering
Heart sounds mentorship by W. Proctor Harvey, MD
Special thanks for the medical mentorship of Dr. Raymond Murphy
Reviewed by Dr. Barbara Erickson, PhD, RN, CCRN.
Last Update: 11/10/2021

Sources

Heart and Lung Sounds Reference Library Diane S. Wrigley
Publisher: PESI
Impact Patient Care: Key Physical Assessment Strategies and the Underlying Pathophysiology
Diane S Wrigley & Rosale Lobo
Practical Clinical Skills: Lung Sounds
Essential Lung Sounds Diane S. Wrigley, PA-C
Published by MedEdu LLC
PESI Faculty - Diane S Wrigley
Case Profiles in Respiratory Care 3rd Ed, 2019
William A.French
Published by Delmar Cengage
Essential Lung Sounds by William A. French
Published by Cengage Learning, 2011
Understanding Lung Sounds Steven Lehrer, MD
Clinical Heart Disease W Proctor Harvey, MD
Clinical Heart Disease
Laennec Publishing; 1st edition (January 1, 2009)
Heart and Lung Sounds Reference Guide
PracticalClinicalSkills.com