What respiratory finding is expected during an exacerbation of COPD?

During an exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), it is common to observe changes in respiratory findings that reflect increased airway resistance and inflammation. Coarse crackles and rhonchi are indicative of mucus accumulation and bronchoconstriction typically seen in these patients.

Coarse crackles result from the opening of collapsed airways during inspiration, while rhonchi are low-pitched sounds caused by the movement of air through narrowed airways filled with mucus or other obstruction. These abnormal lung sounds are a reflection of the underlying pathophysiological processes occurring during a COPD exacerbation, such as increased sputum production and airway inflammation.

In contrast, prolonged inspiration is not a characteristic finding in COPD exacerbations; rather, patients may exhibit prolonged expiration due to obstructed airflow. Normal breath sounds and normal chest movement are also not expected during exacerbations, as they do not reflect the increased respiratory distress and obstructive patterns associated with the condition. Thus, the presence of coarse crackles and rhonchi serves as an important clinical sign during a COPD exacerbation, highlighting the need for effective management and treatment.