Why does a dry nose make me constantly want to pick it?

Dry nose and frequent urges to pick the nose may be caused by dry environment, insufficient water intake, atrophic rhinitis, allergic rhinitis, or nasal vestibulitis. Symptoms can be improved through nasal moisturizing, hydration, and medical treatments. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by nasal pain or bleeding, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Dry environment: Low air humidity causes moisture loss in the nasal mucosa, leading to dryness, discomfort, and a desire to pick the nose, often accompanied by nasal crusting. It is recommended to use a humidifier to increase air moisture and apply saline nasal spray before bedtime to moisten the nasal passages.

2. Insufficient water intake: Dehydration reduces secretion from the nasal mucosa, causing dryness and itching that may trigger the urge to pick. It is advised to drink sufficient water daily and consume water-rich fruits and vegetables to replenish body fluids.

3. Atrophic rhinitis: Atrophy of the nasal mucosa leads to reduced secretions, resulting in dryness, decreased sense of smell, and easy crust formation, which triggers the impulse to pick the nose. Patients may use medications such as compound menthol nasal drops, saline nasal irrigation solutions, and vitamin AD drops under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

4. Allergic rhinitis: Exposure to allergens causes nasal inflammation, leading to dryness, itching, and sneezing, prompting nose picking for relief. It is recommended to use medications such as mometasone furoate nasal spray, loratadine dispersible tablets, and montelukast sodium chewable tablets under a doctor’s supervision to relieve symptoms.

5. Nasal vestibulitis: Bacterial infection of the nasal vestibule skin causes dryness, erosion, itching, and pain in the mucosa, inducing nose-picking behavior. Patients may follow medical advice to use erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment, or physiological seawater nasal spray to improve symptoms.

To maintain nasal health, avoid frequent nose picking, wear a mask outdoors to reduce dust irritation, follow a light diet avoiding spicy foods, and develop the habit of rinsing the nose with warm water regularly.