Stertor

A stertor is a respiratory sound characterized by heavy snoring or gasping. It is caused by partial obstruction of airway above the level of the larynx and by vibrations of tissue of the naso-pharynx, pharynx or soft palate (this distinguishes it from stridor, which is caused by turbulent air flow below or in the larynx). It is low-pitched, non-musical, and occurs during the inspiratory phase only. In general terms it is a snoring or snuffly sound. Stertorous breathing will be audible during the post-ictal phase after a tonic-clonic seizure.

Not to be confused with stridor.

Causes

• Loss of nervous control of the pharynx, soft palate, particularly from damage for instance by stroke or tumor to the vagus and hypoglossal cranial nerves
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Upper airway resistance syndrome

See also

• Death rattle