Intermediate Lung Sounds

Crackles - Early Inspiratory (Rales) - Auscultation Lesson

Early inspiratory crackles (rales), as suggested by the title, begin and end during the early part of inspiration. The pitch is lower than late inspiratory crackles. A patient's cough may decrease or clear these lung sounds. Early inspiratory crackles suggest decreased FEV1 capacity and are characteristic of COPD.

Listen

The patient's position is sitting.

Crackles - Early Inspiratory (Rales) - Auscultation Lesson

Listen

Visualize