What type of breath sounds can generally be cleared by coughing?

Rhonchi are characterized by low-pitched, wheezing sounds that often indicate the presence of mucus or secretions in the larger airways. These sounds can typically be cleared by coughing because coughing helps to expel the mucus obstructing the airways, which in turn can restore normal airflow and eliminate the abnormal sounds.

In contrast, rales (often referred to as crackles) are associated with fluid in the smaller airways or alveoli and are not cleared by coughing. Stridor is a high-pitched sound that indicates an obstruction in the upper airway and typically does not improve with coughing, as it is related to a structural issue rather than excessive secretions. Similarly, while crackles may occasionally improve with coughing depending on their cause, they are generally more difficult to clear compared to rhonchi. Thus, rhonchi is the most appropriate choice as these sounds are particularly responsive to coughing interventions.