Finding an unexpected bump inside the nose can be a source of concern, yet many such occurrences are benign and resolve on their own. The internal lining of the nose is delicate and susceptible to various changes, which can manifest as lumps or swelling. This article offers general information regarding potential causes, ranging from common irritations to less frequent conditions.
Common Causes of Nasal Bumps
One frequent cause of bumps inside the nose is nasal vestibulitis, an infection of the hair follicles in the nasal vestibule. This condition often presents as red, inflamed bumps or pus-filled lesions. Staphylococcus aureus bacteria commonly cause these infections, which can result from minor trauma such as nose picking, frequent nose blowing, or nasal hair plucking.
Ingrown hairs also frequently lead to painful, red bumps inside the nose, especially after tweezing or shaving nasal hairs. When a hair grows back into the skin instead of outward, it can cause localized inflammation and a pimple-like appearance. These bumps often resolve on their own, but a warm compress can help alleviate swelling and discomfort.
Nasal polyps are another common type of growth: soft, painless, non-cancerous tissue clumps that develop from the lining of the nose or sinuses. These growths can vary in size, from microscopic to several inches long, and may appear gray, yellow, or pink. While often asymptomatic when small, larger polyps can lead to symptoms like nasal congestion, a reduced sense of smell or taste, and snoring by blocking nasal passages.
Small cysts, such as epidermal inclusion cysts, can also form inside the nose. These appear as slow-growing, flesh-colored bumps that are harmless. They arise when skin cells get trapped beneath the surface, forming a sac that fills with keratin, a protein found in skin and hair.
More Serious Nasal Bumps
Less common, some nasal bumps indicate more serious conditions requiring medical attention. Granulomas are inflammatory masses that develop in response to chronic irritation, infection, or certain systemic diseases. These persistent growths may be firm and can cause discomfort or obstruction within the nasal passage.
Benign tumors, though not cancerous, can also present as nasal bumps. Examples include wart-like growths (papillomas) or bony tumors (osteomas). These growths are slow-growing and may not cause symptoms unless they become large enough to obstruct breathing or cause pressure. Their appearance can vary, but they often feel firm to the touch and are fixed in location.
In rare instances, a persistent or unusual nasal bump could be a malignant growth or cancer. Nasal cancers are uncommon, but awareness is important. Such growths may be persistent, grow rapidly, or be accompanied by other concerning symptoms like persistent bleeding or changes in facial sensation. Prompt evaluation is important for any suspicious or changing bump.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Consult a healthcare professional about a nasal bump for timely diagnosis and management. If a bump inside the nose is accompanied by persistent or worsening pain, it warrants medical attention. Rapid growth or noticeable changes in its size, shape, or color should also prompt a doctor’s visit.
Bleeding from the bump or nose is a concerning symptom. If the bump obstructs breathing or causes persistent nasal congestion that doesn’t resolve, seek professional advice. Other symptoms include fever, chills, or if the bump doesn’t resolve within a reasonable timeframe. Self-diagnosis is not a substitute for medical evaluation.
Medical Evaluation and Treatment Options
Medical evaluation for a nasal bump begins with a thorough physical examination. The provider will visually inspect the inside of the nose, often using a speculum and light for better visibility. They may also palpate the area to assess the bump’s size, texture, and tenderness.
For a more detailed view of the nasal passages and sinuses, an endoscopy may be performed. This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light into the nostril, allowing visualization of areas deeper within the nasal cavity not visible during a standard examination. If the bump’s nature remains unclear, a biopsy (taking a tissue sample for laboratory analysis) may be necessary to determine the exact cause. This helps differentiate between benign and more serious conditions.
Treatment options for nasal bumps depend on the underlying cause. For bacterial infections like nasal vestibulitis, antibiotics (topical ointments or oral medications) are prescribed to resolve the infection. Small cysts or symptomatic benign growths like polyps may be surgically removed, often through minimally invasive procedures such as polypectomy or balloon sinuplasty. For inflammatory conditions, steroid nasal sprays or oral steroids may be used to reduce swelling and shrink the bump. If a more serious condition is identified, a referral to a specialist, such as an otolaryngologist or an oncologist, is the next step for specialized management.