Dryness in your nose is triggered by a variety of factors and in some cases can lead to sinusitis, chronic congestion and even nosebleeds, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Recognize the common causes of nasal dryness to ensure your well-being. Alert your doctor prior to taking any home remedy for dryness in the nose.
Significance
Your nose serves a vital function to your health by processing the air you inhale --- typically as much as 20,000 liters of air daily. The nose also humidifies air and warms cold air to body temperature, which prevents damage to your lungs and bronchial tubes. Several factors contribute to nasal dryness, which can have a negative effect on your breathing, along with your daily functions and sleep habits. Chronic nasal congestion and sinusitis, or inflammation of your sinuses, often result when nasal dryness goes untreated.
Identification
Dryness in your nose occurs when mucous that normally provides moisture thickens inside your nostrils and increases your risk for infection. Cracks and fissures form on the inner lining of your nose, which is more thin and sensitive than the skin on your body. Nasal dryness often triggers bleeding, called epistaxis, when cracks take place in close proximity to blood vessels.
Types
Common causes of dryness in your nose include inhalation of dry, hot air that can often come from the environment or indoor heating devices in the winter, as well as nonprescription antihistamines and some medications prescribed for anxiety and blood pressure. Family Doctor.org reports that severe dryness in your nose may be the result of an immune disorder called Sjögren's syndrome, which also causes dryness in your mouth and eyes.
Prevention/Solution
Reduce your risk for nasal dryness by adding a humidifier or vaporizer to your home and work station. Nonprescription saline sprays can also be helpful when applied twice daily, especially if you are working in dry or dusty areas. Water-soluble lubricants used in moderation and never immediately before going to sleep also benefit your nose, according to MayoClinic.com. Petroleum jelly commonly relieves dryness in the nose when applied to the inside of your nostrils. Your doctor may recommend drinking plenty of water, chewing sugar-free gum or a medication that helps your body produce saliva as a treatment for Sjögren's syndrome, although the condition has no cure.
Warning
Excessive use of nonprescription nasal sprays can cause damage to the inner lining of your nose and some people find the sprays addictive. Aim the nasal sprays to the side of your nose rather than the center for best results. While petroleum jelly is typically safe to use as a remedy for dryness in your nose, the jelly can lead to inflammation in your lungs when inhaled consistently over a long-term period.
Considerations
Drink plenty of water and bring along a saline nasal mist when traveling on cruise ships or airplanes. Cruise ships typically have high amounts of mold in the cabins, while airplanes tend to have dry air and are ripe with germs, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Petroleum jelly: Safe for a Dry Nose?
- Family Doctor.org: Sjögren's Syndrome
- American Academy of Otolaryngology --- Head and Neck Surgery: Fact Sheet: Your Nose, the Guardian of Your Lungs
- Sleep Apnea.org: When Things Go Wrong with CPAP
- Herald-Review.com: Nasal Dryness Is Responsible for Most Nosebleeds
- Ear Nose & Throat Center.net: Nasal Dryness; A Trigger To So Many Problems
