Sores inside the nose are irritations, small lesions, or scabs that can develop within the nasal passages. They often result from a disruption to the delicate lining of the nostrils. While many nasal sores are minor and resolve on their own, understanding their potential origins can help identify when medical attention is beneficial. This overview explores various reasons why these sores can form.
Common Causes of Nasal Sores
Bacterial infections are a frequent cause of nasal sores. Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) bacteria commonly reside in the nasal passages. If the skin lining is broken, these bacteria can lead to infection. This can manifest as painful sores, sometimes resembling impetigo.
Viral infections also contribute to nasal sores. The Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1), which causes cold sores, can lead to sores inside or near the nostrils. These are often painful blisters that may crust over. Reactivation can be triggered by factors such as stress, illness, or sun exposure.
Physical trauma and irritation are common causes of nasal sores. Actions like nose picking can damage the nasal lining, creating small cuts or abrasions. Excessive nose blowing, particularly during colds or allergies, irritates the sensitive mucous membranes, potentially leading to dryness and cracking. Dry air, especially in heated environments, can further contribute to the drying and cracking of the nasal lining, making it more susceptible to irritation and the formation of sores.
Inflammation from allergies can also play a role. Chronic allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, causes persistent inflammation and irritation within the nasal passages. This ongoing irritation, coupled with frequent nose blowing or rubbing, can disrupt the nasal mucosa and lead to sores.
Less Common or Serious Causes
Fungal infections, though uncommon, can lead to nasal sores, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. These infections can range in severity, with more serious forms occurring in those with compromised immunity, such as people with HIV, cancer, uncontrolled diabetes, or those taking immunosuppressant medications. While rare, persistent fungal infections in the sinuses can sometimes manifest with nasal symptoms.
Certain autoimmune conditions can cause inflammation and sores within the nasal passages as part of a broader systemic response. Diseases like granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) or lupus can affect various body systems, including the respiratory tract, leading to chronic inflammation, crusting, and even tissue breakdown in the nose. These conditions involve the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy tissues.
Some medications can contribute to nasal irritation and sores. Long-term or improper use of certain nasal sprays, particularly decongestant sprays, can lead to a condition known as rhinitis medicamentosa, or rebound congestion. This occurs when the nasal passages become dependent on the spray, and their overuse causes worsening congestion and irritation, rather than relief. Additionally, chemotherapy can sometimes cause irritation and inflammation of the nasal passages, leading to symptoms like a runny nose or dry nasal membranes.
Other systemic diseases, though rare in this context for the general public, may also present with nasal manifestations. Conditions like tuberculosis or syphilis can, in very infrequent instances, cause lesions or sores within the nasal cavity.
Nasal polyps or tumors are another less common consideration. Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths that form on the lining of the nose or sinuses, often due to chronic inflammation. While typically painless, larger polyps can cause irritation, obstruction, and sometimes contribute to bleeding or discomfort, which might be perceived as a sore. In very rare cases, persistent or unusual sores that do not heal could potentially indicate a benign or malignant growth, necessitating medical evaluation.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if nasal sores do not heal within one to two weeks. Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Sores that worsen, spread, or are accompanied by severe pain, increased swelling, or significant redness.
- Signs of a spreading infection, such as fever, chills, or pus discharge from the nose.
- Recurrent nasal sores that appear without an obvious cause.
- Nasal sores accompanied by frequent nosebleeds or difficulty breathing.
- Sores that are unusually large, have an abnormal appearance, or are located in an atypical area within the nostril.
Preventive Measures and Self-Care
Avoiding nose picking prevents trauma to the delicate nasal lining, reducing the likelihood of sores. Fingers can introduce bacteria and create small breaks in the skin.
Keeping the nasal passages adequately moist can help prevent dryness and cracking. Using saline nasal sprays or a humidifier, particularly in dry environments or during colder months, can help maintain moisture within the nose. Saline sprays help to moisturize the nasal lining and can also flush out irritants. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which soothes dry airways and thins mucus, making nasal passages less prone to irritation.
Practicing good hand hygiene, such as frequent hand washing, reduces the risk of introducing bacteria into the nasal passages. This is important before touching the face or nose.
Identifying and avoiding known irritants, such as allergens, harsh chemical fumes, or excessively dry air, helps prevent nasal irritation that might lead to sores.
Proper use of nasal sprays is also important. Following the instructions for over-the-counter nasal sprays is advised to avoid overuse, which can lead to rebound congestion and increased irritation. Saline sprays are generally safe for frequent use, unlike medicated decongestant sprays that should be used for limited durations.