In a study of more than 1,000 people with COPD, those who experienced wheezing were more likely to experience COPD exacerbation (getting worse). Wheezing sounds might be associated with worsening COPD. By stage 2, wheezing may be continual, along with shortness of breath. In early-stage COPD, you might hear wheezing only when you exhale heavily. Wheezing sounds may vary by the stage of COPD.

Wheezing occurs when airflow is forced in and out through these clogged airways. In chronic bronchitis, inflammation and mucus block the bronchioles (bronchial tubes), which are small airways in the lungs. It’s a common symptom of chronic (long-term) bronchitis, one type of COPD. Wheezing is often a clue for a COPD diagnosis. However, some wheezes are inspiratory sounds, produced when air is inhaled. Wheezes are usually expiratory sounds, meaning they occur when air is exhaled. Some people liken it to the sound of a deflating balloon. Wheezes are whistling sounds that happen during breathing. Wheezing is the breath sound most commonly associated with COPD.

Keep reading to learn about six different lung sounds that may be associated with COPD. These sounds can also reveal which parts of the respiratory system are most affected by COPD. The sounds caused by COPD can provide critical clues about COPD, its progression, and whether there are any COPD complications. The process of listening to the lungs through a stethoscope is called auscultation, and it’s an important skill pulmonologists and other doctors may use to better understand your lung condition.

Lung sounds for copd