Dry nose is a common condition many experience around cold and allergy season. Overly dry sinus passageways can result in pain, discomfort, swelling, sinus infections and nose bleeds when there is a lack of mucous lining the tissues. Fortunately, this bothersome condition can be alleviated through the aid of your physician, as well as some simple techniques you can try at home. Here is a guide to the causes of dry nose. 

Causes of Dry Nose 

There are a number of reasons nasal passages could be lacking mucous, causing sinus irritation. If you have a cold or allergies, you may be blowing your nose often, eliminating that moisturizing layer. A dry environment or dry air can also rob your sinuses of moisture. Animal dander, smoke or chemical exposure, and reoccurring travel can also aggravate these sensitive passageways. Lastly, a dry nose can be caused by an infection, nutritional deficiency or certain medical conditions, like chronic atrophic rhinitis.

Treatment for Dry Nose 

If you have some time before you see your physician, try to assuage symptoms of dry nose at home. A small amount of petroleum jelly can be used to line the inside of your nose to soothe dry tissue. A humidifier or steam room increases humidity in the surroundings, which can relieve nasal passages. You can also achieve this by filling a bowl with hot water and using a towel over your head and bowl to create a small tent to trap and breathe in the steam. Nasal spray is also effective for moisturizing, clearing congestion and cleaning out dust, dirt and pollen from the nasal passages.

United Hospital District in Blue Earth, MN, has created a place where all of your health care needs can be met in one location. Whether you need a routine check up or your experiencing a chronic medical issue, our team of skilled physicians are happy to provide primary and specialty health care services. Our full range of care includes OB-GYNs, urologists, ear, nose and throat specialists, general surgery, orthopedics and family medicine to name a few. To see a full list of providers, visit our website. For more information about our other locations in Fairmont, Wells, and Winnebago, MN, call us at (507) 526-7388.