Nasal flaring

Alternative names:

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

Definition:

Enlargement of the nostrils during breathing.

Considerations:

Nasal flaring is seen mostly in infants and younger children. Nasal flaring is often an indication that increased work is required for breathing. Any condition that causes the infant to work harder to obtain enough air can cause nasal flaring. While the causes of nasal flaring can be mild, they can also be life-threatening.

In young infants, nasal flaring is often a very important signal of respiratory distress.

Common causes:

• airway obstruction (any cause)
• bronchiolitis
• croup
• asthma (acute)
• acute epiglottitis
• hyaline membrane disease (respiratory distress syndrome seen in newborn infants only)
• transient tachypnea of the newborn
• pneumonia

Note: This list is not all inclusive and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The list of all possible causes can be extensive and include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the list will vary based on the age and gender of the individual as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom, such as location, quality, timing, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for this symptom occurring alone or in combination with other problems.

Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director, Utah Health Informatics and adam.com editorial