What causes dryness and pain in the nose, and what should be done about it?

Feb 13, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Dryness and pain in the nose may be caused by dry air, influenza, allergic rhinitis, atrophic rhinitis, nasal polyps, or other reasons. Patients can choose appropriate treatments based on the underlying cause. It is recommended to visit a hospital for evaluation, clarify the condition, and receive standardized treatment under medical guidance. During treatment, avoid exposure to substances that may trigger allergies, as they could irritate the nasal passages and worsen the condition.

Dryness and pain in the nose may be caused by dry air, influenza, allergic rhinitis, atrophic rhinitis, nasal polyps, or other reasons. Patients can adopt appropriate treatment measures based on the underlying cause.

1. Dry Air

Dry air may accelerate evaporation of moisture in the nasal cavity, leading to symptoms such as nasal dryness, mild pain, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms generally improve gradually after increasing fluid intake.

2. Influenza

Infection with the influenza virus may damage the nasal mucosa and capillaries, causing symptoms including nasal pain, dryness, and congestion. As directed by a physician, medications such as oseltamivir phosphate granules, naphazoline hydrochloride nasal drops, or antiviral oral liquid may be used for symptom relief.

3. Allergic Rhinitis

When the nasal mucosa and submucosal tissues come into contact with allergens, localized persistent congestion and increased surface temperature may occur, triggering allergic symptoms such as nosebleeds, dryness, and pain. Patients experiencing these symptoms should follow medical advice to use antiallergic medications such as loratadine capsules, compound naphazoline spray, or ibuprofen-pseudoephedrine dispersible tablets.

4. Atrophic Rhinitis

This condition involves shedding or thinning of the nasal mucosal epithelial cilia, leading to shrinkage of the nasal turbinates and reduced nasal secretions, resulting in dryness and pain. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as nasal obstruction and epistaxis. Under medical guidance, patients may use moisturizing agents such as compound menthol nasal drops, erythromycin ointment, or cod liver oil ointment to soothe the nasal cavity.

5. Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps may cause inflammation or swelling of the nasal mucosa, narrowing or blocking the nasal passage. Poor nasal ventilation reduces humidity, causing dryness and pain in the mucosa. Symptoms may include sneezing and hearing loss. As prescribed, medications such as mometasone furoate nasal spray, budesonide nasal spray, or fluticasone propionate nasal spray may be used to control polyp progression.

Patients are advised to seek medical evaluation to determine the exact cause and receive proper treatment under a doctor's supervision. During treatment, avoid exposure to substances that may trigger allergies, as they could irritate the nasal passages and worsen symptoms.


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