Learn the types of lung sounds, what causes them, and how auscultation helps identify respiratory conditions early and accurately.
John Landry is a registered respiratory therapist from Memphis, TN, and has a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. He enjoys using evidence-based research to help others breathe easier, live healthier, and improve their overall quality of life.
Learn the types of lung sounds, what causes them, and how auscultation helps identify respiratory conditions early and accurately.
Learn what vesicular breath sounds are, how they form, and why changes in these soft, low-pitched sounds can signal early lung problems.
Learn what bronchovesicular breath sounds are, where they’re normally heard, and why their presence elsewhere may signal early lung disease.
Learn what bronchial breath sounds are, how they form, and why hearing them in the lung periphery signals consolidation or atelectasis.
Learn what a pleural friction rub is, how it forms, and why this grating breath sound signals pleural inflammation needing evaluation.
Learn what diminished breath sounds mean, why they occur, and how they help identify airflow issues or pleural space problems in patients.
Learn what stridor is, why it occurs, and how to recognize dangerous upper airway obstruction for faster, more effective respiratory care.
Learn what rhonchi are, how they form, and what they reveal about mucus obstruction to improve respiratory assessment and patient care.
Learn what crackles are, why they occur, and how to assess them to better identify respiratory conditions during patient evaluation.
Learn what wheezing means, how it’s produced, and what conditions cause it to improve respiratory assessments and clinical decision-making.
Learn why COVID-19 cases are rising again in 2026, what is driving the surge, and how to stay protected during the new seasonal comeback.
Learn what the sternum is, how it supports breathing, and why it’s an essential structure for respiratory therapists and patient care.
Learn what the pharynx is, its structure and function, and why it’s important in respiratory care, especially for respiratory therapists.
Explore the differences between laminar and turbulent flow in the lungs, and their roles in respiratory physiology and airway mechanics.
Discover where the lungs are located, how they function, and why their position in the chest is vital for breathing and overall health.
Learn whether cough drops contain alcohol, why it’s sometimes added, and how to choose safe alcohol-free options for soothing throat relief.
Learn how long it takes for your lungs to heal after quitting vaping, what improves first, and how to support better lung recovery.
Learn what hemoglobin is, how it carries oxygen and carbon dioxide, and why it’s essential in respiratory care.
Learn about the laryngoscope, its types, uses in intubation, and why it’s essential for airway management and respiratory therapists.
Celebrate Respiratory Care Week by honoring respiratory therapists and raising awareness about the importance of healthy lungs.