What causes dryness and pain inside the nasal cavity?
Feb 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Dryness and pain inside the nasal cavity may be caused by factors such as dehydration, atrophic rhinitis, allergic rhinitis, dry rhinitis, or Sjögren's syndrome. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, complete relevant examinations, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance after identifying the underlying cause. During treatment, drink plenty of water to replenish bodily fluids and alleviate nasal dryness.
Dryness and pain inside the nasal cavity may be caused by factors such as dehydration, atrophic rhinitis, allergic rhinitis, dry rhinitis, or Sjögren's syndrome.
1. Dehydration
This may occur in high-temperature environments or with insufficient water intake, leading to loss of moisture from the nasal mucosa—a physiological phenomenon. Using a humidifier to increase ambient humidity and drinking more water can help improve symptoms.
2. Dry Rhinitis
Prolonged exposure of the nasal mucosa to physical or chemical irritants may lead to chronic inflammatory changes, reducing nasal secretions and resulting in dry rhinitis, which causes symptoms such as itching and pain. Following medical advice, medications such as menthol oil, erythromycin ointment, or liquid paraffin may be used to help relieve symptoms.
3. Allergic Rhinitis
Individuals with genetic predisposition or frequent exposure to allergens may experience histamine release, causing non-infectious inflammation of the nasal mucosa, leading to allergic rhinitis, mucosal damage, and reduced protective function. Under medical guidance, antihistamines such as ebastine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or loratadine tablets can be used to promote recovery.
4. Atrophic Rhinitis
Due to dryness of the nasal mucosa and atrophy of submucosal glands, ciliary function may be impaired, leading to discomfort such as nasal dryness, pain, and dry mouth. As directed by a physician, medications such as liquid paraffin nasal drops, cod liver oil nasal drops, or compound estradiol nasal solution may be used to alleviate nasal dryness.
5. Sjögren's Syndrome
In patients with Sjögren's syndrome, the immune system affects the body's lubricating glands, reducing secretion from the nasal mucosa and causing symptoms such as nasal dryness and dry mouth. Under medical supervision, drugs such as mometasone furoate nasal spray, budesonide nasal spray, or fluticasone propionate nasal spray may be used to regulate immunity and restore glandular secretory function.
It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation, complete relevant examinations, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor’s guidance. During treatment, drink plenty of water to replenish bodily fluids and reduce nasal dryness.
