battement des ailes du nez

CONT: Un battement des ailes du nez se rencontre au cours des détresses respiratoires; il témoigne de l'utilisation des muscles respiratoires accessoires.

OBS: It is due to contraction of the anterior and posterior dilatores naris muscles, which are supplied by the facial nerves. The appearance of flaring indicates that accessory muscles are being recruited for inspiration. Since flaring implies that greater than normal work is required for breathing, it is an excellent sign of dyspnea.