What is an early sign of respiratory distress in a child?

Nasal flaring is recognized as an early sign of respiratory distress in a child. This occurs when the nostrils widen during inhalation, indicating that the child is struggling to breathe. It is a compensatory mechanism that occurs as children attempt to increase airflow to their lungs. When the body is under stress due to difficulty in breathing, such as with asthma or respiratory infections, nasal flaring can signal that the child is not getting enough oxygen and needs immediate attention.

In contrast, while the other options may indicate various health issues, they are not typically associated specifically with respiratory distress. Rapid weight gain could suggest fluid retention or other metabolic issues rather than breathing problems. A persistent cough might indicate an underlying infection or irritation in the respiratory tract but does not directly signal immediate distress. Lastly, an increased appetite is usually a sign of good health and recovery, and does not relate to respiratory issues. Thus, nasal flaring serves as a valuable and immediate indicator of a child's respiratory condition, highlighting the need for further assessment and potentially urgent care.