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Nasal flaring

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Illustrations

Nasal flaring
Nasal flaring
Sense of smell
Sense of smell

Alternative names    Return to top

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

Definition    Return to top

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

Considerations    Return to top

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    Return to top

Home Care    Return to top

For any sign of difficulty breathing, emergency help should be sought immediately.

Call your health care provider if    Return to top

What to expect at your health care provider's office    Return to top

A history and physical assessment of the child will be done to determine if the flaring is due to upper or lower respiratory problems. Administration of oxygen (if needed) and ordering of any lab work or X-ray studies that might assist in the diagnosis may also be performed.

Medical history questions may include:

Physical examination will include careful listening to the breath sounds (auscultation).

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

After seeing your health care provider, if a diagnosis was made related to nasal flaring, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.

Update Date: 5/4/2004

Updated by: Katrina McPherson, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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