There are many reasons your child may have a dry nose. Although having a dry nose is not life-threatening, it can be very uncomfortable for your child. You may not even know your child has a dry nose until you see a nosebleed, which is a common symptom of dry nose in children.
Nasal Cavity
The nasal cavity inside the nose is lined with a mucous membrane. This membrane keeps the nose moist by making mucus. If the mucous membrane is irritated by outside factors or not producing enough mucus, the inner lining of the nose will become dry. Mucus inside the nose will help prevent your child from getting nosebleeds.
Causes
A dry nose can be the result of your child being in a dry or heated environment, which causes the inside of the nose to become cracked, crusted and itchy. Allergies, sinus infection, chemical irritants and nasal sprays used too often may also dry out your child's nose.
Complications
A dry nose will commonly result in a nose bleed. When the blood vessels inside the nose break, they will bleed. Common causes of a nose bleed include having a dry nose, nose picking or a cold or allergy accompanied by sneezing, coughing and nose blowing.
Prevention
To avoid a dry nose you can keep the nose moist with a dab of petroleum jelly around the opening of the nostrils. Other preventative measures include using a saline nasal spray or a cool mist humidifier in your child's room. A humidifier will add moisture to the air, preventing your child's nose from becoming dry.
Considerations
A dry nose or an occasional nose bleed should not be a cause for concern. According to Kids Health, frequent nosebleeds may be a sign of a more significant problem or bleeding disorder. If you child gets frequent nosebleeds or has heavy, hard-to-stop nosebleeds, you should contact your doctor.
