What airway sound is indicative of a lower airway obstruction?

Wheezing is an airway sound that indicates a lower airway obstruction, primarily caused by the narrowing of the bronchi or bronchioles in the lungs. This high-pitched, musical sound occurs typically during expiration and is associated with conditions such as asthma or bronchoconstriction, where airflow is restricted due to the inflammation and constriction of the air passages.

In contrast, stridor is often associated with upper airway obstructions, such as a foreign body or swelling in the throat. Rhonchi, while indicative of larger airway obstructions, are more commonly linked to secretions in the larger airways rather than directly pointing to lower airway issues. Gurgling sounds suggest the presence of fluid in the airway, which may be due to aspiration or other conditions, but do not specifically indicate obstruction in the lower airways.

Thus, wheezing is the most appropriate sound associated with lower airway obstruction, reflecting the pathophysiological changes occurring in conditions affecting the lower respiratory system.