What type of breath sound is described as "rice krispies" due to air moving through fluid?

Rales, also known as crackles, are characterized by a sound that resembles "rice krispies" when air moves through fluid in the smaller airways or alveoli of the lungs. This phenomenon occurs typically during inhalation and indicates the presence of conditions such as pulmonary edema, pneumonia, or congestive heart failure. The sound is produced when small airways open and close in the presence of fluid or secretions, leading to the bubbling or crackling noise.

Recognizing rales is crucial in clinical assessments, as they provide valuable information about the patient's respiratory status and can guide further diagnostic and treatment decisions.