Bumps under the nostril can be concerning, as skin changes may indicate various underlying conditions. Understanding potential causes and appropriate next steps can help alleviate worry. This article explores common types of bumps, their associated signs, and when to seek professional medical advice.
Common Types of Bumps Under the Nostril
Bumps under the nostril can stem from several common skin conditions. Pimples develop when hair follicles clog with oil and dead skin cells, leading to red, tender bumps. Ingrown hairs and folliculitis occur when hair grows back into the skin or when follicles become inflamed or infected, often appearing as red, sometimes pus-filled, bumps that can be itchy or painful. Bacteria are a common cause of folliculitis, which can appear as red bumps or whiteheads at the nostril opening.
Cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), manifest as painful, fluid-filled blisters on or around the nose. These blisters may itch, burn, or tingle before emerging, eventually crusting over and healing within one to two weeks. Cysts, such as epidermoid or sebaceous cysts, are noncancerous growths under the skin, appearing as smooth, skin-colored bumps that vary in size and may contain a small central opening. They can become red or painful if inflamed or infected.
Boils are painful, pus-filled bumps that form when bacteria infect and inflame a hair follicle, leading to a larger, tender lump. These can develop from minor skin injuries or insect bites. Warts, caused by HPV, are small, rough, flesh-colored growths that can appear around the nose. Milia are tiny, pearly-white bumps, which are small cysts containing trapped keratin, often appearing in clusters on the face. They are harmless and may resolve on their own.
Some bumps under the nostril can indicate more serious conditions like skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are common types of non-melanoma skin cancer that can appear on the nose. Basal cell carcinoma often looks like a pearly or waxy bump, a red patch, or a non-healing sore that may bleed or crust. Squamous cell carcinoma can present as a scaly patch, a non-healing sore, or a firm red nodule. Fibrous papules are benign, firm, skin-colored to reddish bumps on or near the nose.
Accompanying Signs and Symptoms
Bumps under the nostril can present with various accompanying signs. Pain or tenderness often indicates inflammation or infection, common with pimples, ingrown hairs, folliculitis, and boils. Cold sores are notably painful and tender, especially in early blister stages. Redness and swelling are frequent indicators of inflammation, seen in bacterial infections.
Itching or a burning sensation can precede cold sores or accompany ingrown hairs. Warmth around the bump suggests increased blood flow due to inflammation or infection. Some bumps may involve discharge, such as pus from boils or fluid from cold sore blisters. Changes in size or color, or if a bump feels unusually hard or soft, can also be important observations.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Consult a healthcare provider if a bump under the nostril is rapidly growing or changing in appearance, as this could indicate a more serious condition. Professional evaluation is also advisable if the bump becomes very painful, hot, or significantly swollen, which may indicate a spreading infection or inflammation.
Other concerning signs include bleeding, oozing pus, or an open sore that does not heal. These symptoms, especially if persistent, warrant prompt medical assessment. Recurrent bumps or those that persist despite home care should also be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Any suspicion of skin cancer necessitates a medical consultation.
General Care and Professional Interventions
For minor bumps, gentle self-care measures can provide relief. Maintaining good hygiene by gently cleansing the area can help prevent irritation or infection. Applying warm compresses can reduce pain and swelling, and for some conditions like ingrown hairs, it may help to coax the hair out. Avoid picking, squeezing, or attempting to pop any bumps, as this can introduce bacteria, worsen inflammation, and potentially lead to scarring or spread of infection.
When professional intervention is necessary, a healthcare provider will typically begin with a physical examination and detailed medical history. Various treatments may be recommended depending on the suspected cause. For bacterial infections, prescription antibiotics might be prescribed, and antiviral medications are available for cold sores.
In some cases, a bump may require drainage, corticosteroid injections, or minor surgical removal. For skin cancers, treatment options include surgical removal, such as Mohs surgery, radiation therapy, or cryotherapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.