An average of 8,000 to 20,000 liters of air pass through an adult's nose every day, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Your nose passes this air to your lungs, and it spreads throughout your body. When your nose is dry, it cannot function at full capacity. Cracked, dry nostrils can become inflamed, causing pain, and your chance of infection or illness increases. A dry nose can be a symptom of a number of health concerns. Symptomatic treatment provides immediate relief from a dry nose, but speak to your doctor to determine the cause and best long-term treatment options for your dry nose.
Step 1
Crank up the humidity in your home. A dry environment means exposure to dry air. Dry air dries out your nostrils and nasal passageways, causing discomfort, itching, cracking and flaking. If you need immediate relief but don't have a humidifier, take a warm shower and inhale the steam.
Step 2
Stay hydrated. Your nose works as a miniature humidifier, imparting moisture to the air you breathe. When your body has no moisture available, your nose can't perform this function to great capacity. Aim to get at least 64 oz. of water a day, particularly when exposed to environments with heating or air-conditioning systems, which can sap humidity from the environment and your body.
Step 3
Examine the side effects of the medications you take. Prescription and nonprescription drugs, including antihistamines, decongestants and diuretic blood pressure medications, can all have drying effects on your nose. Discontinuing use of these medications may provide relief for your dry nose. Consult your doctor before discontinuing any medications to avoid side effects or complications.
Step 4
Try an over-the-counter remedy. Over-the-counter options for dry nose relief include rub-in moisturizers and saline nasal sprays. A water-based lubricant can help relieve dry skin at the opening of the nostrils. These products can provide short-term relief of some dry nose sufferers.
Step 5
Avoid handling your nose more than necessary. Rubbing, scratching or picking at your nose can exacerbate the damage and irritation caused by dry nasal conditions. These actions can also increase the risk for infection by opening up microscopic tears on the skin. If you must handle your nose, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after doing so.
Step 6
Limit your exposure to allergens, when possible. Pollen, smoke, dust and pet dander, among other things, can add extra irritation and cause extra nasal dryness. Consider wearing a protective mask when it isn't possible to limit exposure, or if you are constantly exposed to irritating allergens. For example, if you work in a veterinary office and are constantly faced with pet dander, you may find relief by wearing a face mask.
Things You'll Need
- Humidifier
- Nasal spray
- Lubricant
- Facial mask
References
- American Academy of Otolaryngology: Fact Sheet: Your Nose, the Guardian of Your Lungs
- MayoClinic.com: Nonallergic Rhinisitis: Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- University of Michigan Health System: Saline Nasal Sprays
- "The Merck Manual Home Health Handbook"; Robert S. Porter et al.; 2009
- "American Medical Association Handbook of First Aid and Emergency Care"; American Medical Association; 2009
