Which abnormal finding indicates difficulty in breathing?

Wheezes are a key abnormal finding that indicates difficulty in breathing, as they are high-pitched, musical sounds produced when air flows through narrowed airways. This narrowing can be due to various conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, or other respiratory infections that create obstruction in the airways. The presence of wheezes suggests that the patient is experiencing some form of airway constriction, leading to compromised airflow and subsequent breathing difficulty.

In contrast, a regular rhythm, normal heart sounds, and clear auscultation are all signs of normal respiratory and cardiovascular function. A regular rhythm of breathing and normal heart sounds indicate that there are no immediate concerns regarding the rhythm of the heart or significant underlying cardiac issues. Clear auscultation suggests that no abnormal lung sounds are present, reinforcing that there is unimpeded airflow. Therefore, the presence of wheezes serves as a clear indicator of respiratory distress, making it the correct choice in this context.