Nasal flaring

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Overview	Treatment

Nasal flaring

Definition

Nasal flaring refers to enlargement of the opening of the nostrils during breathing.

Alternative Names

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

Considerations

Nasal flaring is seen mostly in infants and younger children. Nasal flaring is often an indication that increased effort is required for breathing.

Any condition that causes the infant to work harder to obtain enough air 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 sign of respiratory distress.

Causes

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


Nasal flaring


Sense of smell

Review Date: 5/10/2006
Reviewed By: Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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