What should I do if my nose is dry with yellow crusts inside?

Apr 05, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
If dryness and yellow crusting inside the nose are caused by a cold, antiviral medications may be used as directed by a physician to inhibit viral nucleic acid replication. If due to atrophic rhinitis, nasal irrigation with normal saline can be performed, followed by application of medication inside the nasal cavity to maintain moisture. If caused by nasal vestibulitis, antibiotic ointments can be applied to moisturize and protect the nasal mucosa.

Dryness inside the nose accompanied by yellow crusts should be treated according to the underlying cause. Common causes include the common cold, atrophic rhinitis, and nasal vestibulitis.

1. Common Cold

If the condition is caused by a viral infection leading to the common cold, increased yellow purulent nasal discharge may result in nasal dryness. Antiviral medications may be used as directed by a physician. Commonly used drugs include ribavirin tablets, ganciclovir tablets, and acyclovir tablets, which help block viral nucleic acid replication.

2. Atrophic Rhinitis

If atrophic rhinitis results from prolonged exposure to dust or irritation from chemical substances, the nasal mucosa becomes dry and thin. Inflammatory cell infiltration leads to crusting of secretions. In such cases, nasal irrigation with normal saline can be performed, followed by application of medications inside the nasal cavity, such as erythromycin ointment, chlortetracycline eye ointment, or compound menthol nasal drops, to maintain nasal moisture.

3. Nasal Vestibulitis

If nasal vestibulitis is caused by irritation from purulent nasal secretions damaging the mucous membrane, antibiotic ointments may be applied under medical guidance. Examples include mupirocin ointment, erythromycin ointment, and fusidic acid cream, which help moisturize and protect the nasal mucosa.

In addition, this condition could also be caused by nasal vestibule eczema. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.


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