Winter weather or sickness may be leaving your nose feeling extra dry. This is likely harmless, but it can also cause uncomfortable or painful symptoms. Dry nose is an actual medical condition known as rhinitis sicca and can prompt you to search for some home remedies to find relief.
Potential Symptoms
A dry nose is often the result of frequent nose blowing. Certain medications can also contribute to the condition. It typically results in symptoms like the following:
- Burning
- Itching
- Scabbing
- Congestions
- Nosebleeds
Typical treatment includes treating the cause of the dryness, or antibiotics for an illness, moistening of the nose and removal of any crusts.
Relieving a Dry Nose
Home remedies can help alleviate these symptoms in many cases. Consider implementing the following tactics to avoid feeling the symptoms of a dry nose:
- Use a humidifier: Humidifiers can help replace the moisture in the air that is lost due to central heating and air. This loss of moisture can cause a dry nose. Humidifiers should be cleaned daily to avoid mold growth and allergic reactions caused by mold.
- Stay hydrated: Lack of hydration causes bodily tissue to dry out, including the inside of your nose. Drinking enough water will help hydrate nasal passages in addition to the rest of the body.
- Nasal irrigation: Nasal irrigation involves flushing a saline solution through the nostrils using a neti pot or bulb syringe. Nasal rinses are available over the counter at local pharmacies like Malley’s Family Pharmacy. Be sure to follow the instructions included with the rinse and ensure all tools are cleaned following each use.
- Saline sprays: Saline sprays moisten nasal passages and are also available over the counter. Saline sprays can help with removing irritants that can cause inflammation, leading to a dry nose.
- Steam inhalation: If there is no access to a humidifier, similar results can be achieved with steam inhalation. Steam inhalation can be achieved by leaning over a bowl of hot water, taking a hot shower or visiting a sauna. Steam inhalation may also only provide temporary relief.
In rare circumstances, a continuing dry nose can signal a more serious condition; if your nose is severely or persistently dry, make an appointment to see your doctor. It’s also a good idea to see your doctor if you experience pain and nosebleeds or have signs of infection.
For questions about ENT health or if you’re experiencing persistent dry nose, contact Southeast Texas Ear, Nose & Throat, LLP.
