Stridor

Stridor Care at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City in Abu Dhabi

Stridor is a high-pitched, noisy breathing sound that arises when airflow through the upper airway is partially obstructed. At Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), we provide expert evaluation and treatment for stridor, including congenital, acquired, and complex airway conditions.

What is Stridor?

Stridor occurs when there is narrowing or obstruction in the larynx, trachea, or upper airway. It can affect anyone at any age, but it’s more common among children since they have narrower airways than adults. It may present at rest or during feeding, crying, or exertion, and can be inspiratory, expiratory, or biphasic.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the airway level and severity, and may include:

• A high-pitched breathing noise (especially when inhaling)
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Cyanosis or bluish lips/face in more severe cases
• Feeding difficulties (in infants)
• Sleep-disordered breathing or voice change
• Signs of airway obstruction such as straining or use of accessory muscles

Diagnosis

Diagnosis at SSMC is undertaken by our multidisciplinary ENT and paediatric airway teams using:

• Detailed history and physical examination
• Endoscopic evaluation (laryngoscopy/bronchoscopy)
• Imaging such as CT scan of the airway or neck
• Collaboration with paediatric intensive care and neonatology where required

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity, and age of the patient. Options include:

• Conservative monitoring for mild cases
• Medical therapy for associated conditions (e.g., infection, reflux)
• Minimally invasive interventions (e.g., endoscopic airway dilation)
• Surgical airway reconstruction or tracheal resection in selected cases

SSMC: Comprehensive Stridor Care

• A dedicated paediatric and adult ENT airway service with board-certified specialists
• A fully equipped endoscopy suite and collaboration with thoracic, paediatric surgery, and PICU teams
• Individualised care plans from diagnosis through to recovery and follow-up

Advice for Patients and Families

If you or your child is experiencing persistent noisy breathing – especially with feeding or sleep problems – it is important to seek specialist assessment promptly. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes.