Nasal flaring

Considerations:
Nasal flaring is often an indication that increased work is required for breathing. Any condition that causes the person to work harder to obtain enough air can cause nasal flaring. While it can be mild, it can also be life-threatening.

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

Common Causes:

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.

Home Care:
For suspected airway obstruction (blocked airway), the Heimlich maneuver should be performed and emergency help sought immediately.

For nasal flaring that is not a sign of airway obstruction, prescribed therapy should be followed.

Call Your Healthcare Provider If:

  • there is any persistent, unexplained nasal flaring, especially in a young child.
  • bluish color develops in the lips, nail beds, or skin. This indicates that breathing difficulty is severe and may indicate that an emergency condition is developing.



What to Expect:
Emergency measures (such as the Heimlich maneuver or administration of oxygen) will be performed as necessary. Once the condition is stable, a medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions may include:

  • When did it start?
  • Is the person getting better or worse?
  • Does the person look blue?
  • Is the breathing noisy or are there wheezing sounds?
  • Are there grunting noises with the breathing?
  • Does the person look like they are working hard to breathe?
  • Are they getting tired or sweaty?
  • Do the muscles of the stomach, shoulders, or rib cage need to be used when the person is breathing (see intercostal retractions )?
  • What other symptoms are present?

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 by your health care provider related to nasal flaring, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.