What causes pain when pressing on one side of the nose, along with internal pain, and what should be done about it?

Pain when pressing on one side of the nose, along with internal pain, may be caused by dry nasal passages, nose picking injuries, external impact, nasal vestibulitis, or sinusitis. Symptoms can be improved through moisturizing care, avoiding irritation, cold compresses, and medication. If pain worsens or is accompanied by pus-like nasal discharge or fever, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Nasal Dryness: Dry environments or insufficient fluid intake can cause dehydration and cracking of the nasal mucosa, leading to pain upon pressure due to mucosal stretching, often accompanied by a burning sensation. It is recommended to use saline nasal sprays for moisture, drink plenty of water, and use a humidifier indoors to increase humidity.

2. Nose Picking Injury: Frequent or forceful nose picking can damage blood vessels and tissues inside the nasal cavity, creating small wounds. Pressure on these areas irritates the injury and causes pain. Avoid picking the nose; instead, gently clean the nostrils with cotton swabs to reduce mucosal irritation.

3. External Impact: Trauma such as a blow or collision to the nose can cause local soft tissue swelling or mucosal damage, resulting in pain both upon pressing and internally. Bruising may also occur. Apply cold compresses within the first 48 hours to reduce swelling, avoid pressing on the affected area, and minimize movement of the nose.

4. Nasal Vestibulitis: Inflammation of the nasal vestibule caused by nasal secretions or bacterial infection leads to redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area, especially when touched or pressed. It may also be accompanied by nasal itching and crusting. Under medical guidance, topical medications such as erythromycin ointment, chlortetracycline hydrochloride ointment, or oral cephalexin capsules may be used to relieve symptoms.

5. Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses caused by bacterial or viral infection leads to accumulation of fluid or pus in the sinus cavities, which presses on surrounding tissues and causes pain on one side of the nose, both with pressure and internally. This is often accompanied by thick yellow or green nasal discharge and nasal congestion. As directed by a physician, medications such as budesonide nasal spray, amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets, or Biyuan Tongqiao Granules may be used to alleviate symptoms.

To maintain nasal health, keep the nasal passages clean using saline rinses, avoid forceful nose blowing or picking, eat a light diet avoiding spicy and irritating foods, drink plenty of water, and maintain regular sleep patterns to strengthen immunity and reduce discomfort.