Winter is a prime time for problems with nasal dryness, but this uncomfortable condition can strike anyone year-round. Dryness can lead to nosebleeds and crusting in nasal passages, which in turn can allow bacterial infections to develop under the crusts. Over-the-counter or homemade saline solutions can help relieve the problem.
Considerations
You may suffer from a dry nose for many reasons. The low humidity and heated indoor air that come with winter can help dry out your nose. Allergies, colds and sinusitis may irritate and dry out the lining of your nose. Some medications, especially nasal decongestants, also may cause nasal dryness. Medline Plus notes that dryness brought on by all these conditions may increase your risk of nosebleed.
Saline Spray
Over-the-counter nasal sprays are sold at grocery, discount and drug stores and may help to ease problems with nasal dryness. Medline Plus notes that a saline nasal spray, as well as water-soluble jelly, can help prevent nosebleeds, especially during wintertime. MayoClinic.com finds that saline sprays also can help relieve the stuffiness and congestion common to the common cold. A benefit to the saline sprays is that they won't lead to the rebound congestion that nasal decongestants sometimes cause.
Neti Pot
An alternative to treating nasal dryness with a saline spray is to use a neti pot. Neti pots may be made of materials such as ceramic, molded plastic or stainless steel and are designed to rinse the nasal cavity with a saline solution. They are often used for treating allergies, sinus problems or colds, and MayoClinic.com reports that some users find neti pots more effective than over-the-counter sinus medications.
Saline Solution
You can buy over-the-counter saline solutions for your neti pot, but it's also possible to make your own saline to relieve nasal dryness. MayoClinic.com reports that homemade saltwater solutions are just as effective as the saline rinses and neti pot solutions you can buy in a store. Just dissolve 1/8 tsp. of table salt in 8 oz. of distilled or purified water. If you want to use tap water instead, bring it to a boil and let it cool to room temperature before adding the salt.
Warning
Saline sprays and rinses can provide much-needed moisture to dry, crusty nasal passages, but there may be some mild side effects. The University of Michigan Health System warns that nasal sprays may sting a little. You also may experience nasal irritation from preservatives used in some over-the-counter products. If that's a concern for you, make your own or look for preservative-free brands.
