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Nasal flaring - Overview

Alternative Names

Flaring of the alae nasi (nostrils); Nostrils - flaring

Definition of Nasal flaring:

Nasal flaring is the enlargement of the opening of the nostrils during breathing. It is often a sign that increased effort is needed to breathe.

Considerations:

Nasal flaring is seen mostly in infants and younger children.

Any condition that causes the infant to work harder to breathe can cause nasal flaring. While many causes of nasal flaring are not serious, some can be life threatening.

In young infants, nasal flaring can be a very important symptom of respiratory distress.

Common Causes:

Asthma (acute)
Airway obstruction (any cause)
Bronchiolitis
Croup
Epiglottitis (acute)
Pneumonia
Transient tachypnea of the newborn

Nasal flaring

Sense of smell

Reviewed last on: 4/26/2010
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Wiebe RA. General approach to the pediatric patient. In: Marx J, ed. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2006:chap. 164.

Respiratory

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