The nose and the nasal passages are usually first in the line of defense against diseases, which are infections. This is because several germs and foreign objects try to invade the human body through the nose. However, it is the moisture, or the mucus within the nose, which acts like flypaper and literally catches or traps the intrusive microorganism, preventing them from entering the body. Unfortunately, there are several factors that could lead to dry nostrils, as the mucus that is present in the respiratory tract dries up. If a person is suffering from the problem of a dry nose or dry nasal passages, then the invading germs can easily enter the human body, without being thwarted. Ironically, while most people associate the flu or a common cold with a runny nose, at times the viruses present in the respiratory tract could also lead to a dry nasal passage, which prevents the normal amount of moisture from lining the inside of the nose. Therefore while a dry nose may not be a major cause for concern, it can lead to several serious health complications. Therefore, it is best to known what the various dry nostrils causes and triggers are, so that they can be avoided.
There are several factors that could lead to a dry nasal cavity, which could include the environment, the flu, side effects of certain medicines and a condition known as dry nose syndrome. In general the hot and humid weather can lead to over dryness in several parts, like eye dryness, dry nose and throat dryness. Some people also use nasal sprays and decongestants that are very effective in clearing a dry nasal congestion. While these decongestants may clear up the nasal passages, they may also dry them up, a little too much, leading to a dry nose problem. Another condition, known as Sjorgen’s syndrome could also lead to a dry nose and throat as well as loss of moisture in the eyes.
The dry nose problem is also evident in women who are menopausal and have decreased levels of collagen in the body, which reduces the levels of mucus in the nasal passages, eyes and the throat. In fact, it has been seen that people who are prone to nose bleeds due to different reasons may also suffer from a dry nose problem quite frequently.
Apart from various upper respiratory infections, there are two other health conditions that could lead to a dry nose. These include Rhinitis and high blood pressure or hypertension. Therefore, since a dry nose could be the indication of an underlying health problem, it is best to get it checked by a doctor, even though it may seem to be a minor ailment.
There are several uncomfortable symptoms that could appear because of a dry nose. Some of the most common symptoms, indicative of a dry nose are:
In case a person experiences severe symptoms like problems in swallowing or breathing due to extreme dryness in the nose and throat, then it may be best to consult a doctor immediately.
Although a dry nose is not a very serious problem on its own, most people prefer to get it treated, in order to relieve the various symptoms. However, in order to increase dry nasal mucus levels, it is absolutely essential to identify the exact cause of the problem and then treat the condition accordingly. While it is possible to alleviate the condition as well as the symptoms with the help of a dry nasal passages remedy, it is very important to first consult a doctor. Some people may be using medicines which are drying the nasal passages out and it is necessary to consult a doctor, before discontinuing any of them. Given below are some of the most commonly used dry nose remedies:
Apart from following the home remedies for a dry nose mentioned above, it is also important to drink a lot of fluids (preferably warm) throughout the day and eat a diet that is high in nutrition. In case a person does not see any improvement after using such remedies, it may be best to visit a doctor, for a medical dry nostrils treatment.
Often a dry nose can cause nasal and other breathing problems along with being a constant source of irritation. A dry nose causes itching and wheezing too.
The best way to get rid of a dry nose is to eat some chicken soup. Chicken soup is rich in many nutrients and heats up the nasal passage. Chicken soup also contains selenium. Selenium boosts up the body’s immune system and also helps in the development of good health.
You could also use some salt water to cure your dry nasal passage. Take a glass of warm water and mix into it a teaspoon of table salt. Use a medicine dropper to squirt this solution into your nostril. Repeat this at least thrice to lubricate the nasal passage. Salt is a natural anti bacterial agent and fights off the bacteria that may be residing in colonies, in the nose area. Drain out the saline solution completely before squirting in more. You can also use saline water for gargling. Gargling with salt water relieves blockage in the throat and chest area.
You can also go in for a sauna bath. The high humidity in the steam bath acts as a humidifier and helps reduce congestion in the chest, even if for a short period of time only. Even though the steam may decongest your chest and nasal passage, it is but short lived. To make the effects felt for a longer term, drink a lot of fluids. The fluids increase the hydration of the nasal passage.
With the home remedies, it is also important that you see your doctor. If you are already on some kind of medications, you might want to reconsider the dosage. If you have been using antihistamines, consult your doctor and reduce the dosage. Same applies for any other medicines that have atropine in them.
If the problem of a dry nose persists, try using a dehumidifier in your home everyday. You can use a vaporizer in your sleeping area. Leave the vaporizer on for sometime before you sleep so that your nasal passage can get moisturized.
Every morning, as a part of your beauty routine, apply some moisturizer in your nostrils so that they remain moisturized and don’t run dry too often. If your nose is excessively dry, you can replace the moisturizer with petroleum jelly. Applying sesame oil can also do the trick and the dry areas of your nose will instantly feel soothed.
However, if the inside of your skin is so dry that it cracks up or starts bleeding, it is time to go see your doctor.