10 Signs and Symptoms of RSV
Reviewed: Dr. Mera
Symptom #10: Chest Wall Retractions and Nasal Flaring
Chest wall retractions occur when the individual has trouble breathing due to the muscles not being able to function normally. Although the muscles are trying to get air into the lungs, the lack of air pressure causes the soft tissue and skin in the chest wall to sink in or retract. It is especially obvious in infants and young children as their chests are soft and have yet to develop fully.
It can be seen in conditions such as bronchiolitis, asthma, croup, respiratory distress syndrome (such as in an RSV infection), pneumonia, and epiglottitis. Nasal flaring refers to the widening of the nostrils when one is breathing. It is one of the signs that may indicate respiratory distress.
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