What are rhonchi primarily associated with?

Rhonchi are primarily associated with the sound of mucus rolling around in the bronchioles. This characteristic sound is often heard during auscultation when there are obstructions or fluid in the airways. It is typically low-pitched and can indicate the presence of secretions in the larger airways, such as the bronchi.

This sound can often be heard in conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia, where mucus accumulation occurs. The distinct nature of rhonchi is due to the resonance of the vibrations caused by the air passing through the mucus or fluid, resulting in a rattling or gurgling sound.

Clear lung sounds, normal airflow, and high-frequency wheezing sounds do not correlate with rhonchi. Clear lung sounds suggest healthy, unobstructed airways, while normal airflow indicates no significant obstruction or secretions. High-frequency wheezing sounds are associated with narrower airways, such as in asthma or constriction, rather than with the presence of mucus in the bronchioles.