Which of the following can cause decreased breath sounds?
1) Air or fluid in the pleural space
2) Hyperinflation of lung tissue
3) Mucus plugging of the airways
4) Shallow or slow breathing

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Decreased breath sounds can be caused by any condition that prevents air from moving freely in the lungs or the pleural space. Air or fluid in the pleural space (such as in pneumothorax or pleural effusion), hyperinflation of lung tissue (as seen in conditions like emphysema), mucus plugging of the airways (common in conditions like chronic bronchitis or cystic fibrosis), and shallow or slow breathing (which can occur in various clinical situations) can all lead to decreased transmission of breath sounds to the chest wall, where they are auscultated.

Which of the Following Can Cause Decreased Breath Sounds