Stertorous breathing is an abnormal, often loud, breathing sound signaling a partial obstruction in the upper airway. It indicates air encountering resistance as it moves through the nose or throat. Recognizing this sound, its characteristics, and its origins can help identify potential health concerns. This article clarifies what stertorous breathing indicates, explores its common causes, and outlines when medical attention is advised.
What Stertorous Breathing Is
Stertorous breathing is a low-pitched, noisy sound arising from partial blockage in the upper respiratory tract. It often resembles snoring, gurgling, rattling, or a congested nasal sound. This sound occurs because soft tissues in the nose, mouth, or throat vibrate as air struggles to pass through a narrowed space.
This noisy breathing originates from areas above the larynx, or voice box, including the nasal passages and the pharynx. It is distinct from other abnormal breathing sounds like stridor, a higher-pitched sound indicating an obstruction in or near the larynx or trachea. Stertorous breathing also differs from wheezing, a whistling sound pointing to narrowing in the lower airways within the lungs.
Why Stertorous Breathing Occurs
Stertorous breathing results from any condition causing partial narrowing or blockage in the upper airway, from the nasal passages to the pharynx. One common reason is the relaxation of throat muscles during sleep, deep sedation, or intoxication. This relaxation allows soft tissues to collapse into the airway, creating noisy breathing, as seen in snoring or sleep apnea.
Enlarged tissues also contribute to this condition. Swollen tonsils and adenoids, particularly in children, can physically reduce airway space. Allergic reactions or infections like tonsillitis can cause tissues to swell, further obstructing airflow. Accumulation of secretions, such as mucus or saliva, can also lead to stertorous sounds, often seen in individuals who are unconscious or have difficulty swallowing.
Structural abnormalities within the nasal passages or throat can cause persistent stertorous breathing. Examples include a deviated septum, nasal polyps, or certain craniofacial differences. A foreign object lodged in the upper airway can also lead to sudden onset of noisy breathing.
When to Seek Medical Help
While some stertorous breathing, like occasional snoring, is harmless, other forms signal serious underlying medical conditions. Seek medical attention if stertorous breathing appears suddenly or worsens rapidly. Concerns also arise if noisy breathing is accompanied by difficulty breathing, gasping, or a choking sensation.
Immediate medical evaluation is necessary for other red flag symptoms, including:
- Changes in skin color, such as bluish lips or fingertips, indicating insufficient oxygen.
- Altered consciousness, confusion, or unusual lethargy.
- Fever, excessive drooling, or difficulty swallowing.
- Occurrence after a head or neck injury.
- Observed in infants or young children with feeding difficulties or increased irritability.
Persistent, unexplained stertorous breathing, even without immediate red flags, warrants a healthcare professional’s evaluation to rule out conditions like sleep apnea or other airway issues.