A sore inside the nose is typically a lesion, crack, or area of irritation located within the nasal vestibule, the area just inside the nostril. This damage to the delicate lining can cause pain, tenderness, and crusting. While these sores are common and usually minor, they can cause significant discomfort, especially when touched or when the nose moves. This guide provides practical information on how to treat an existing nasal sore and prevent the issue from returning.
Common Reasons Sores Develop Inside the Nose
The skin and mucous membranes inside the nasal cavity are susceptible to damage from everyday actions. Physical trauma, such as aggressive nose blowing, excessive wiping, or nose picking, frequently creates small abrasions or fissures in the lining. These breaks allow bacteria to enter, leading to a minor infection called nasal vestibulitis, which manifests as painful, pimple-like sores often accompanied by crusting.
Environmental factors also contribute to sore development. Dry air, especially during winter or in arid climates, causes the nasal lining to dry out and become inflamed. Chemical irritants, including prolonged use of certain decongestant nasal sprays, can exacerbate this dryness and cause further irritation. Managing underlying conditions like seasonal allergies is also important, as the associated inflammation and frequent nose clearing increase the likelihood of irritation.
Quick Relief and Home Healing Methods
The immediate focus for healing a nasal sore is maintaining a moist environment and preventing secondary infection. Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the affected area inside the nostril two to three times daily. This creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture and shields the sore from irritants, promoting faster tissue repair. For sores suspected of having a mild bacterial component, gently apply a topical antibiotic ointment, such as bacitracin, to the nasal vestibule.
Before applying any product, thoroughly wash your hands to prevent introducing new bacteria. Use a clean cotton swab to dab the ointment onto the sore, avoiding deep insertion, rather than using a finger which can cause further trauma. A sterile saline nasal spray or rinse helps cleanse the nasal cavity, remove crusts, and hydrate the surrounding tissue. For localized pain, an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can manage symptoms temporarily.
Practical Steps to Prevent Recurrence
Long-term prevention requires minimizing trauma and maintaining consistent moisture in the nasal passages. Environmental control is a significant step, specifically by using a cool-mist humidifier, especially in the bedroom. This adds moisture to the air, preventing the nasal mucosa from drying out and cracking. The humidity level should ideally be kept between 40 and 60 percent for effectiveness.
Modifying habits like nose picking and forceful blowing breaks the cycle of physical trauma. Blow gently, one nostril at a time, instead of aggressively clearing the nose, to avoid excessive pressure and irritation. Establish a daily moisture routine by applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the nasal vestibule at night, even without an active sore. This proactive approach sustains the nasal skin barrier, making it more resilient. If sores are linked to allergic rhinitis, consistent use of prescribed allergy medications helps reduce inflammation and the need for frequent nose clearing.
Warning Signs Requiring a Doctor’s Visit
Most nasal sores resolve with simple home care within a week, but certain symptoms require professional medical evaluation. A sore that does not show signs of healing after seven to ten days of consistent home treatment should be checked by a healthcare provider. Persistence may suggest a complicated underlying issue or an infection requiring prescription medication.
Signs of a spreading or severe infection demand immediate medical attention. These include:
- The development of a fever.
- Severe swelling or redness extending beyond the immediate area of the nose.
- Visual changes, such as double vision.
- A sudden, intense headache accompanied by nasal symptoms.
Frequent recurrence of sores despite preventative measures also warrants a medical consultation to rule out less common causes or to receive a more targeted treatment plan.