Stridor is an abnormal, high-pitched, musical breathing sound caused by a blockage in the throat or voice box (larynx). It is usually heard when taking in a breath.

Alternative Names of Stridor are: Breathing sounds - abnormal; Extrathoracic airway obstruction.

Causes of Stridor

Common causes of stridor include:

• Abscess on the tonsils
• Airway injury
• Allergic reaction
• Croup
• Diagnostic tests such as bronchoscopy or laryngoscopy
• Inhaling an object such as a peanut or marble (foreign body aspiration)
• Laryngitis
• Neck surgery
• Use of a breathing tube for a long time
• Secretions such as phlegm (sputum)
• Smoke inhalation or other inhalation injury
• Swelling of the neck or face
• Swollen tonsils or adenoids (such as with tonsillitis)
• Vocal cord cancer

Prevention of Stridor

Follow your doctor's advice to treat the cause of the problem.

When to seek Medical Advice

Stridor may be a sign of an emergency. Call your health care provider right away if there is unexplained stridor, especially in a child.