Tactile fremitus is normally found over the mainstem bronchi near the clavicles in the front or between the scapulae in the back. As you move your hands downward and outward, fremitus should decrease. Decreased fremitus in areas where fremitus is normally expected indicates obstruction, pnemothorax, or emphysema.

How do you describe normal tactile fremitus?

In individuals with healthy lung tissue, tactile fremitus can be felt symmetrically along both sides of the chest. Normally, tactile fremitus is more pronounced near the clavicles and in between the shoulder blades, with a decreasing intensity towards the base of the lungs.

Is tactile fremitus good?

An increase in tactile fremitus indicates denser or inflamed lung tissue, which can be caused by diseases such as pneumonia. A decrease suggests air or fluid in the pleural spaces or a decrease in lung tissue density, which can be caused by diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma.