What Does Rales Sound Like

Rales are abnormal lung sounds characterized by discontinuous clicking or rattling sounds. They can sound like salt dropped onto a hot pan or like cellophane being crumpled.

What sound does rales make?

Rales. Small clicking, bubbling, or rattling sounds in the lungs. They are heard when a person breathes in (inhales). They are believed to occur when air opens closed air spaces.

What is the difference between Rhonchi and rales?

Rhonchi are continuous in nature while rales are not and seem to have no rhythm that coincides with the breathing rate. Rhonchi are typically heard during expiration while rales are heard on inspiration.