Discomfort is not the only reason to treat dry nose symptoms. The most important reason to treat dry nose is to help your lungs. The nose is a valuable part of the respiratory system. It filters, warms and moisturizes the air before it enters the lungs. A dry nose equals dry lungs. Dry nose is usually caused by dry weather, allergies, decongestant medications or antihistamine medications.
Step 1
Discontinue the use of over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Step 2
Increase your fluid intake to hydrate your body so that it can produce mucous. Drink at least six 8 ounce glasses a day of water, juice or tea.
Step 3
Use a nasal saline spray as needed to moisturize the nasal passages. Saline nasal sprays are available for purchase over-the-counter at most drug stores. Make sure to purchase a spray that is 100 percent saline. Because the spray contains only saline (salt water) it can be used as often as needed to hydrate the nose.
Step 4
Place a humidifier or a vaporizer in your home and office to add moisture to the air you breathe. Regularly clean the humidifier or vaporizer to keep bacteria growth inside the machine at bay. Bacteria that grows inside the machine will come out into the mist and contaminate the air you breathe.
Step 5
Apply a small amount of moisturizing cream at the opening inside your nose. Rub the moisturizer into the skin to prevent inhalation of the product. Stay away from petroleum-based moisturizers, which could cause pneumonia if accidentally inhaled into the lungs. Instead use a water-based moisturizer or 100 percent pure aloe vera gel.
Step 6
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever to relieve headaches associated with dry nasal passages. Choose a pain reliever that does not contain a decongestant or antihistamine, which could aggravate dry nasal passages. Good pain reliever choices for dry nose headaches are ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
Step 7
See a doctor if nasal dryness is not relieved within one week of home treatment or is accompanied by dry eyes and dry mouth.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your doctor if you suspect one of your medications may be causing dry nasal passages. An example of medications that can cause nasal dryness are some anti-anxiety medications, diuretic blood pressure medications, pain relievers, eye drops and heart medications. Do not stop taking a prescription medication without first consulting with your doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Nasal saline spray
- Humidifier or vaporizer
- Moisturizing cream or aloe vera gel
- Ibuprofen and acetaminophen
References
- American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery - Fact Sheet: Your Nose, the Guardian of Your Lungs
- Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain Volume 8 Issue 4; Headache and the Dry Nose; HARVEY S. RUSK, M.D.; Jun. 2005
- Mayo Clinic - Petroleum Jelly: Safe for a Dry Nose?
