Final answer:
Rhonchi are the low-pitched snoring or rattling lung sounds caused by blockages in the bronchial tubes and are indicative of respiratory issues like chronic bronchitis or pneumonia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lung sounds that resemble low-pitched snoring or rattling are referred to as rhonchi. These sounds are often heard when a patient has conditions that cause blockage or narrowing of the bronchial tubes, such as chronic bronchitis or pneumonia. Rhonchi are typically caused by the vibrations of mucus or other blockages within the airways and can be heard during both inhalation and exhalation.
They are one of several types of abnormal lung sounds, which also include wheezes, stridor, and crepitation (crackles). To diagnose and evaluate respiratory conditions associated with such symptoms, healthcare professionals employ tools like stethoscopes to listen for these sounds, and may order further tests like chest radiographs or sputum samples.