Nasal flaring develops when the nostrils widen while breathing, which is an indication that a person is having a breathing problem. It is mostly observed in young children and infants and in a few cases, it can indicate respiratory distress.

Nasal flaring is caused by a few medical problems comprising acute illnesses, long-term conditions and accidents. At times strenuous exercise can be responsive to this condition. Generally, a normal person breathing comfortably should not have nasal flaring.
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What Are Conditions That Cause Nasal Flaring?

If you suffer from severe infections like flu, you may observe nasal flaring. It’s commonly seen in people with severe respiratory problems like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

Croup is an inflammation and infection of the larynx and trachea that can cause nasal flaring.

Asthma

Nasal flaring is very common in people with acute asthma, and it may develop along with other asthma symptoms like:

Wheezing

Tightness of the chest

Shortness of breath

Epiglottitis

Epiglottitis is an inflammation of the tissue surrounding the trachea. It is a rare condition now, as most people are immunized against the bacteria H. influenza type B that cause it.

Airway Obstructions

Any blockages in the air passages will make it hard to breathe, which can cause nasal flaring.

Exercise-Induced Nasal Flaring

This is a temporary problem triggered by the need to get more oxygen into the lungs rapidly in response to strenuous exercise like running. This type of nasal flaring should settle in a few minutes and does not need any treatment.

Also Read: Simple Breathing Exercises For Asthma Relief

When To Get Medical Help?

If you notice your child with constant nasal flaring, then seek emergency medical help. Additionally, if you observe a blue colour change in lips, skin or nail beds seek immediate medical help. As this indicates that oxygen is not being adequately pumped through the system.

Diagnosing The Cause Of Nasal Flaring

As nasal flaring is an indication of a severe health problem it is not treated directly. Moreover, its symptoms cannot be treated at home. The healthcare provider would ask you certain questions to assess your breathing pattern and difficulty, including:

  • When it started
  • Is it getting worse or better
  • Whether you show other symptoms like fatigue, drowsiness or sweating
  • Also, your physician will listen to your lungs and breathing to check if there’s any related wheezing or if your breathing is unusually louder

The doctor may recommend certain tests including:

  • Arterial blood gas to measure the level of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood (usually done in a hospital)
  • Complete blood count (CBC) to check for infection
  • Electrocardiogram (EKG) to evaluate heart function
  • Pulse oximetry helps to check the oxygen saturation
  • Chest X-rays to assess for signs of infection or damage

If the breathing problems are very serious, then you may be supported with oxygen.

What Is The Treatment For Nasal Flaring?

If the doctor diagnoses you with asthma, then treatment would depend on the severity of the asthma attack. Generally, treatment will depend on how well symptoms are controlled. Maintain a journal of your asthma symptoms to possibly identify triggers.

 Corticosteroid inhalers are usually the preferred mode of treatment for asthma to ease inflammation and swelling in the airways. Furthermore, the doctor may also recommend an instant-relief inhaler to be used at the onset of an asthma attack.

Also Read: Asthma: Oral v/s inhaled corticosteroids for treatment

Patients may also be on a nebulizer, which turns liquid medication into a mist that can be inhaled. Usually, a nebulizer takes about 5 minutes or more to deliver the drug.

What Will Happen If Nasal Flaring Is Left Untreated?

Nasal flaring is a symptom of breathing difficulties and in most cases, these problems will worsen until the cause is diagnosed and treated. It can be severe, mainly in children and may need immediate medical attention. If properly treated with medications or inhalers it does not exhibit any long-term consequences.