A burning sensation inside the nose is a common and uncomfortable experience. It results from irritation or inflammation of the delicate nasal lining, which contains sensory nerves. This article explores its most common causes.
Environmental Triggers and Irritants
Environmental factors frequently contribute to a burning sensation inside the nose. Dry air, common in winter or with active heating and air conditioning, strips moisture from nasal passages. This dehydrates mucous membranes, leaving them irritated and prone to a burning sensation. Cold, dry air can further exacerbate this discomfort.
Environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold can trigger a burning sensation. When allergens enter the nose, the immune system releases chemicals like histamine, causing inflammation. This leads to irritation and a burning feeling, often with itching, sneezing, and congestion. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, commonly includes this sensation.
Chemical irritants in the air, including smoke, strong perfumes, and cleaning products, directly irritate the nasal lining. Tobacco smoke contains chemicals that inflame nasal tissues, causing swelling and a burning sensation. Industrial chemicals like formaldehyde, bleach, and ammonia also dry out and irritate nasal passages. Long-term exposure can result in chronic inflammation, increasing the nose’s vulnerability to discomfort.
Infections and Inflammatory Responses
Infections and inflammatory conditions frequently cause a burning sensation in the nose. Common respiratory infections like the cold and flu inflame the nasal mucous membranes. The immune response to these viruses leads to swelling and irritation of the nasal lining, resulting in a burning feeling. Both cold and flu can cause sneezing, runny nose, and a burning sensation.
Sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses, can cause a burning sensation. This condition, bacterial or viral, leads to trapped mucus and pressure in the air-filled spaces behind the nose, forehead, and cheeks. Inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses irritates nerve endings, contributing to the burning. If bacterial, it may include discolored nasal discharge.
Non-allergic rhinitis is another inflammatory condition causing a burning sensation inside the nose. Unlike allergic rhinitis, it occurs without an allergic trigger. Causes include sensitivities to air pollution, odors, chemicals, temperature changes, or some medications. It involves blood vessel expansion in the nasal lining, leading to swelling, congestion, and burning.
Other Factors and When to Consult a Doctor
Other factors can contribute to a burning sensation inside the nose. Overuse of decongestant nasal sprays can worsen nasal dryness and irritation. Prolonged use can lead to “rebound congestion” (rhinitis medicamenta), where nasal passages become more congested and irritated after the spray wears off. Some medications, like antihistamines and certain antidepressants, also cause nasal dryness, leading to a burning sensation.
Minor physical irritation, such as frequent nose picking, can cause abrasions or dry out the delicate nasal lining, resulting in a raw or burning feeling. Consistent irritation can make the area more sensitive. Systemic conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome can also cause dryness in mucous membranes, including the nose, leading to persistent burning.
Consult a doctor if the burning sensation persists for over a week, worsens, or has other concerning symptoms. Seek medical attention for severe pain, frequent nosebleeds, high fever, or discolored nasal discharge. Other signs warranting a doctor’s visit include trouble breathing, throat tightness, hives, dizziness, or a fast heartbeat. These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition.