Normal lung sounds, such as vesicular breathing, typically have a frequency range of 50 to 1,000 Hz, with the majority of energy concentrated between 60 and 600 Hz. Tracheal sounds can reach higher frequencies, up to 4,000 Hz. The frequency range of breath sounds can also vary based on factors like location, age, and individual characteristics.
Elaboration:
- Vesicular breathing:This sound, typically heard throughout the lungs, has a frequency range of 100 to 1,000 Hz, with a noticeable drop in energy around 200 Hz.
- Bronchovesicular breathing:Heard between the scapula and the center of the back, it has a frequency range of 100 to 2,000 Hz, with energy primarily between 600 Hz.
- Bronchial breathing:Located between the second and third intercostal spaces, this sound ranges from 100 to 4,000 Hz, with a drop in energy around 800 Hz.
- Tracheal breathing:Heard over the trachea, it also spans 100 to 4,000 Hz, with energy typically dropping at 800 Hz.
- Age and other factors:Studies have shown that women and infants may exhibit higher frequencies at maximum power. The location of recording, such as the trachea, can also influence the observed frequency range.
