Lung moisture: "Crackles" (also called rales, pronounced "rahls") simply mean there is moisture in lung tissue. Neither pleural effusion nor COPD directly cause crackles. They can be due to pneumonia, heart failure, and other problems -- or maybe compression of lung by the effusion. But often it doesn't mean anything important. The doctor treating you will be able to explain the cause in your case. Good luck!
Answered 4/7/2017
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COPD exam findings: Yes both COPD and pleural effusion can cause crackles on physical exam among other findings.
Answered 6/25/2019
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A doctor has provided 1 answer
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A doctor has provided 1 answer
4 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
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