Sores that develop inside the nose are a common, uncomfortable issue involving an irritation or lesion of the delicate nasal lining. These small breaks in the skin, often presenting as scabs or tender spots, can be painful and interfere with normal breathing and hygiene. Understanding the underlying causes is the first step toward relief. This article provides guidance on how to treat existing nasal sores and prevent their return.
Common Reasons Sores Develop Inside the Nose
The internal nasal skin is fragile and easily compromised, leading to the formation of sores and scabs. The most frequent cause is mechanical trauma, including habits like nose picking or aggressive wiping and blowing. Physical irritation damages the mucosal lining, creating a small wound that dries out and scabs over.
Environmental factors also play a role, especially in low humidity climates. Dry air causes the nasal passages to lose moisture, leading to cracking and irritation. This lack of moisture results in painful fissures and scabs, which are essentially dried mucus and blood.
Minor infections are another common cause, often stemming from naturally present bacteria. Nasal vestibulitis, a bacterial infection of the nasal vestibule (the area just inside the nostril), causes pimples or sores. This condition is triggered when minor trauma, such as plucking a nose hair, allows Staphylococcus aureus bacteria to colonize the small cut.
Allergic reactions and persistent colds also contribute to sores. Constant nasal discharge and forceful nose blowing irritate the skin. Chronic inflammation from allergies or sinusitis makes the nasal tissue more fragile, increasing its susceptibility to dryness and lesion formation.
Healing Existing Nasal Sores
Treating an existing nasal sore focuses on two goals: maintaining a moist environment to promote healing and protecting the area from secondary infection. The first step involves gentle cleansing to remove crusts and debris without causing further trauma. A sterile saline spray or rinse can soften hard scabs, allowing them to detach naturally.
Topical moisture application is crucial for creating a protective barrier that supports cell repair. Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly directly to the sore keeps the area moist and prevents further cracking. Apply this two to three times daily using a clean cotton swab or washed fingertip to avoid introducing new bacteria.
For sores showing signs of infection (increased pain, redness, or pus), a topical over-the-counter antibiotic ointment may be used short-term. These ointments help manage localized bacterial colonization resulting from the initial trauma. Use these products sparingly and only when infection is suspected, as they are unnecessary for simple dryness or irritation.
Consistent application is the most important part of the healing process. Patients must resist the urge to pick at the sore, as disrupting the scab restarts the healing cycle and increases the risk of infection. Protecting the sore with a thin layer of moisturizing product allows the underlying tissue to regenerate undisturbed.
Proactive Measures to Prevent Recurrence
Long-term prevention involves modifying behavioral habits and the local environment to reduce irritation and dryness. Focus on managing air quality, especially in dry environments or during winter months. Using a humidifier, particularly in the bedroom, helps maintain proper moisture levels in the nasal passages (ideally 30% to 50% humidity).
Maintaining nasal hygiene reduces the risk of future sores. This includes the regular use of isotonic saline nasal sprays to keep internal membranes hydrated and flush out irritants or allergens. This practice prevents the accumulation of dried mucus that often leads to forceful removal and trauma.
Behavioral adjustments are necessary to break the cycle of mechanical irritation. Avoid forceful nose blowing, opting instead for a gentle wipe with soft tissues. Hand hygiene is also important, requiring thorough washing before touching the face or nose to prevent the transfer of bacteria.
For those who experience dryness-related sores, a nasal moisturizer can be incorporated into a daily routine. Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a specialized nasal gel once a day, usually before bed, helps maintain the integrity of the nasal skin. This application serves as a protective sealant against dry air.
Warning Signs That Require Professional Medical Care
While most nasal sores are minor and resolve with home care, certain signs suggest the need for a medical evaluation. A sore that persists for longer than 7 to 10 days without improvement should be assessed by a healthcare professional. Prolonged healing may indicate a deeper issue, such as a persistent bacterial or viral infection requiring prescription treatment.
It is important to monitor the area for signs of a worsening infection that is spreading beyond the immediate sore. Consult a doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
- The sore begins to spread rapidly or grow significantly larger.
- The sore is accompanied by excessive or prolonged bleeding.
- There is increasing redness, noticeable swelling, warmth, or tenderness extending onto the tip or sides of the nose.
- A fever develops alongside the nasal sore, indicating the infection may be becoming systemic.
- The sore interferes with your ability to breathe comfortably.