Coping with an itchy, irritated nose can be quite frustrating. Fortunately several remedies for this common complaint are available, most of which are inexpensive and easily obtained without a prescription. The best remedy is one that specifically addresses the underlying cause of an itchy nose. Nasal itchiness is commonly caused by dry air, irritants, allergens, viruses and dry skin. Once a cause is established, you can choose the best remedy.
Antihistamines
One common cause of nasal itching is histamine. The American Academy of Family Physicians explains that histamine is a chemical released by the body during an immune response. Upon exposure to an environmental irritant or allergen, histamine can trigger nasal symptoms such as itching, sneezing and congestion. Oral and nasal spray antihistamines can be purchased over the counter in pharmacies and in many grocery stores. While antihistamines often bring relief, the effect is temporary. If the underlying cause is not addressed, such as by stopping exposure to the irritant or allergen, nasal itching will likely return. Ask your physician before using a new medication.
Saline Nasal Sprays
Using an over-the-counter saline nasal spray is a simple, natural remedy for itchiness caused by dry nasal passages. This remedy also often relieves itching caused by mild nasal congestion, such as with a cold. Most saline nasal sprays are simple water and salt solutions, which gently cleanse and lubricate the nasal passages.
Humidity
Humidifying the air in your surroundings can bring relief from nasal itching. Dry air commonly causes an itchy nose. Increasing humidity can alleviate itching from dry air and other causes. Household humidifiers are generally not expensive and are easy to find and operate. If no humidifier is available, exposure to humidified air from another source, such as a steamy bathroom, may help relieve nasal itching as well.
Removal of Source Irritants and Allergens
It is important and helpful to remove offending irritants and allergens from your environment, to whatever extent possible. Common triggers of an itchy nose are dust, animal dander, food sources and chemical irritants, such as those found in cleaning supplies. Once a root cause of nasal itching is identified in a person's environment, removing it is the ideal way to relieve and prevent itching.
Lotions or Ointments
The problem of external nasal itching is often caused by dry skin. Applying a mild lotion or ointment to the skin will lubricate it and relieve itching. Over-the-counter topical steroid creams like cortisone can also relieve itching of external skin on the nose. Consult a physician before applying steroid-based creams and ointments to the skin.
Consulting a Doctor
If remedies for an itchy nose do not provide relief or if the cause of the itch is not easily determined, consult with a doctor. When nasal itching is caused by a more complex problem, it may need to be addressed with prescribed medication or other treatment. Always ask your doctor if nasal itching is persistent or accompanied by pain, fever, rash, swelling, difficulty breathing or other unusual symptoms.
