What causes blood crusts in the nose?

Blood crusts in the nose are generally caused by factors such as unhealthy lifestyle habits, nasal dryness, vestibulitis, chronic atrophic rhinitis, or deviated nasal septum. Patients should promptly visit a reputable hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

Frequent nose-blowing, forceful nose-picking, or excessive nasal cleaning can damage the nasal mucosa, making it fragile and prone to minor injuries and bleeding, leading to blood crust formation. It's important to avoid picking the nose. If crusts do form, they can be gently wiped away using sterile cotton swabs.

2. Nasal Dryness

Dry nasal passages are a common cause of blood crusts. Dry environments or seasons, prolonged exposure to air-conditioned rooms, and insufficient water intake can all lead to moisture loss in the nasal mucosa, causing it to become dry and fragile, thus promoting crust formation. Using a humidifier indoors and increasing daily water intake can help maintain adequate hydration. Consuming water-rich fruits such as pears and watermelon is also beneficial.

3. Vestibulitis

Vestibulitis refers to inflammation of the nasal vestibule mucosa, which may result from bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. Inflammation causes congestion, swelling, and damage to the mucosa, making the nasal cavity more susceptible to the aforementioned issues. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as metronidazole gel, clindamycin ointment, or mupirocin (Bactroban) ointment for treatment.

4. Chronic Atrophic Rhinitis

Chronic atrophic rhinitis is a common condition affecting the nasal mucosa, characterized by progressive thinning and drying of the mucosa, which can easily lead to ulcers, bleeding, and crust formation. Regular nasal irrigation with saline solution is recommended. Additionally, medications such as mometasone furoate nasal spray, fluticasone propionate nasal spray, or oxymetazoline hydrochloride spray may be used under medical supervision.

5. Deviated Nasal Septum

This condition is associated with developmental abnormalities or trauma to the nasal septum. A deviated septum may obstruct airflow within the nasal cavity, increasing the risk of mucosal injury and promoting the formation of blood crusts. Patients may seek treatment at a reputable hospital through procedures such as partial septectomy, three-line tension-reducing surgery, or septoplasty.

In daily life, it is advisable to maintain a positive mindset, avoid spicy, stimulating, and greasy foods, ensure adequate rest, and develop healthy living habits.