What type of inflammation causes blood in nasal discharge?
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Blood in nasal discharge may be caused by conditions such as atrophic rhinitis, allergic rhinitis, acute rhinitis, sinusitis with secondary rhinitis, or dry rhinitis. In dry rhinitis, the nasal mucosa remains chronically dry, leading to thinning of the mucosal surface and increased fragility, making it prone to cracking and bleeding. This is often accompanied by a sensation of nasal burning or the feeling of a foreign body. Symptoms are particularly noticeable during the dry seasons of autumn and winter or in individuals who spend prolonged periods in air-conditioned environments.
In general, the presence of blood in rhinitis may be associated with atrophic rhinitis, allergic rhinitis, chronic dry rhinitis, acute rhinitis, or rhinosinusitis secondary to sinusitis. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Chronic dry rhinitis: The nasal mucosa remains in a prolonged dry state, causing the surface layer of the mucosa to become thin and more fragile, making it prone to cracking and bleeding. This is often accompanied by sensations of burning and foreign body discomfort in the nasal cavity. Symptoms are particularly noticeable during dry seasons such as autumn and winter, or when spending long periods in air-conditioned environments.
2. Allergic rhinitis: Allergic reactions cause congestion and edema of the nasal mucosa. Frequent sneezing and nose-blowing can repeatedly irritate the mucosa, leading to damage and bleeding. It is commonly accompanied by symptoms such as nasal itching and watery nasal discharge, with symptoms worsening upon exposure to allergens.
3. Atrophic rhinitis: The nasal mucosa and submucosal tissues undergo atrophy, resulting in reduced glandular secretion, nasal dryness, and loss of normal protective function of the mucosa. This makes the mucosa susceptible to external stimuli, leading to injury and bleeding. Additional manifestations may include foul odor in the nasal cavity and decreased sense of smell.
4. Acute rhinitis: Often caused by viral infection, inflammatory stimulation leads to congestion and swelling of the nasal mucosa and dilation of submucosal blood vessels. When forcefully blowing the nose or when the nasal mucosa is dry, these blood vessels are prone to rupture and bleed. Common accompanying symptoms include nasal congestion, sticky or purulent nasal discharge, and headache.
5. Rhinitis secondary to sinusitis: Inflammation from the sinuses spreads to the nasal cavity, exacerbating inflammation of the nasal mucosa with significant congestion and edema. Inflammatory secretions further irritate the mucosa, compromising its integrity and leading to bleeding. This condition is often accompanied by symptoms such as purulent nasal discharge and facial pressure or pain.
Daily care includes maintaining nasal moisture, for example, by using saline solution to rinse the nasal cavity; avoiding forceful nose-blowing or picking the nose to minimize mucosal injury. If bleeding occurs frequently or is accompanied by worsening nasal congestion, headache, or fever, prompt medical evaluation is recommended. Additionally, avoid exposure to dust and irritating gases—known triggering factors—to reduce nasal irritation.
