What does stridor indicate in a patient?

Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound that is typically indicative of an obstruction in the upper airway. This sound occurs during inhalation and can be a sign of various conditions such as laryngeal edema, croup, or foreign body aspiration that impacts the upper airway structures. Recognizing stridor is crucial because it suggests that the patient's airway is compromised, which requires immediate attention to prevent respiratory distress or failure.

In contrast to stridor, sounds like wheezing are generally associated with issues in the lower airways, such as bronchospasms or conditions affecting the lungs. Fluid in the oropharynx can lead to other respiratory sounds but does not typically produce stridor. Understanding these responses is key to accurate assessment and intervention in emergency situations.