Medical Health Encyclopedia

Nasal flaring

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W Y

Nasal flaring Sense of smell

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

Text Continues Below

---

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.

Common Causes:

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

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.