Bibasilar crackles are characterized as crackling or bubbling sound that originates from the base of the lungs. These can occur once the lungs inflate or deflate. The sounds are usually brief and can be described as dry or wet. The presence of excess fluid in the airways are responsible for causing these sounds.
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Possible indications that occur with bibasilar crackles
Depending on the cause, the bibasilar crackles might occur with other accompanying symptoms such as the following:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Cough
Just like with any lung infection, the individual should get enough rest, keep the body properly hydrated and avoid any irritants. - Feeling of suffocation
- Wheezing
- Swollen legs or feet
What are the causes?
Various conditions can cause excess fluid in the lungs and might lead to bibasilar crackles.
- Pneumonia – this is an infection in the lungs that can affect one or both lungs. The infection causes the sacs in the lungs to become filled with pus and end up inflamed. This results to coughing, crackles and difficulty breathing. The condition can be mild or life-threatening.
- Bronchitis – this develops once the bronchial tubes are inflamed. The symptoms might include bibasilar crackles along with severe cough with mucus and wheezing.
- Pulmonary edema – this condition can cause crackling sounds in the lungs. Those who have congestive heart failure often end up with pulmonary edema. Other non-heart related causes of pulmonary edema include high altitude, lung damage, viral infections, near drowning and smoke inhalation.
- Interstitial lung disease – any lung disease that involves the interstitium is called as interstitial lung disease. It might be triggered by radiation, chemotherapy, occupational or environment exposure, certain antibiotics and medical conditions.
Even though uncommon, an individual with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) might have bibasilar crackles.
In a study conducted, it was revealed that the crackles might be linked to age in some individuals with asymptomatic cardiovascular issues.
Treatment
It is vital to determine the cause of the bibasilar crackles so that proper treatment can be started. Bronchitis and bacterial pneumonia are managed using antibiotics while viral lung infections are allowed to run their course.
Just like with any lung infection, the individual should get enough rest, keep the body properly hydrated and avoid any irritants.
In case the bibasilar crackles are due to a chronic lung disorder, lifestyle modifications might be required to control the symptoms. For those who are smoking, it is vital to stop. In addition, avoid exposure to irritants such as mold and dust.