Itchy nose

An itchy nose and sneezing for most of us are the harbingers of an impending cold. However, symptoms such as burning and itching, nasal congestion and lacrimation may also indicate a number of other diseases, for example, the development of an allergic reaction or the ingress of a foreign body into the nasopharynx. Household dust, pollen from flowering plants, animal hair, the presence of pathogenic microbes and even some odors irritate the nerve endings of the nasal mucosa and can cause not only a common cold, but also cause more serious problems, up to tissue destruction.

With itching in the nose, sneezing and runny nose, it is difficult to do without vasoconstrictor drugs. Drops reduce swelling of the mucosa, temporarily relieving the symptoms of a cold or allergy. However, their frequent use is addictive. Washing the nasal cavity with medicines also helps to get rid of a runny nose and itching, but in case of an allergy, such a procedure can only do harm, driving the allergen deep. Therefore, it is extremely important at the very beginning of treatment to eliminate contact with the allergen. Here you can not do without the help of an allergist and an otolaryngologist.

To clarify what exactly caused severe itching – an allergic reaction, a pungent odor, or the development of an infectious disease – a study of discharge from the nose will help, the results of which show the presence of certain microorganisms in the nasal cavity.

Possible causes of discomfort

The most common causes of itching in the nose can be divided into two large subgroups, the first of which includes purely situational manifestations of discomfort (external factors), and the second – the presence of symptoms of a particular disease (internal factors).

Most often, the causes of severe discomfort in the nostrils are external factors and irritants that we may encounter, such as colds, strong odors or injuries. This group also includes seasonal factors, including allergic reactions to the flowering of certain plants. Discomfort can also be triggered by animal hair, dust, or house mites. In such cases, in order to avoid contact with the allergen, it is recommended to rinse the nose immediately after a walk or contact with an animal, as well as keep the house clean.

In case of manifestation of additional symptoms, it is recommended not to self-medicate, but to contact specialists.

Itching and burning in the nose with various diseases

Symptoms of redness, burning and itching may indicate the following diseases and disorders:

1. Colds (infectious rhinitis). It usually develops in three stages. At the first stage of the disease, there is a slight malaise, accompanied by burning and dryness in the nose. Further, along with the abundant separation of mucus, there is difficulty in breathing and an accumulation of white and yellow discharge is observed. In childhood, infectious rhinitis affects not only the nose, but also the throat, causing a sore throat.
2. Folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicle in the nose). The disease begins at the base of the nose and is characterized by an accumulation of crusts that make it difficult to breathe, consisting of dried mucus. There is no runny nose.
3. Atrophy of the mucosa occurs against the background of a protracted chronic infection, accompanied by the constant use of vasoconstrictor drops or frequent contact with harmful chemicals (dust) on the mucosa. There is a burning sensation and dryness in the nose with the formation of crusts that make nasal breathing difficult.
4. Diseases of a bacterial nature. This is, in particular, a fetid runny nose (ozena), which is caused by the Klebsiella bacteria. Along with burning and itching of the mucosa, an unpleasant odor, crusts in the nose and loss of smell are observed.
5. Allergic rhinitis is manifested by sneezing, a feeling of nasal congestion and discharge from it (rhinorrhea). Constant sneezing is associated with severe itching, additionally causing irritation of the mucous membrane. The disease is characterized by congestion and swelling, redness of the eyes, and sometimes the development of conjunctivitis.
6. Deformation of the nasal septum is manifested by snoring and a constant desire to scratch the nose. Against the background of dryness and burning in the nose, there is difficulty in breathing and headache, especially in the ear region.
7. Dry air and dust in the room provoke irritation of the mucous membrane. The feeling of burning, itching and discomfort is explained in this case by the lack of a secret to flush harmful substances from the mucosa.
8. Wegener’s granulomatosis. Itching and discomfort in the nose in this case occur due to ulcers on the mucous membrane.
9. Benign (adenoids, polyps) or malignant neoplasms in the nasal cavity. They, touching the epithelium, irritate it, causing itching in the bridge of the nose and wings of the nose. Their symptoms are characterized by a sensation of a foreign body in the nostrils and a constant feeling of congestion that does not go away from vasoconstrictor drops, as well as headache, increased lacrimation and general intoxication of the body.

Let us consider in more detail some of the diseases presented above.

Allergy (allergic rhinitis)

With allergic reactions, in addition to discomfort in the nose, a runny nose, tearing, sneezing and swelling of the mucous membranes are very often noted. These symptoms can appear not only simultaneously, but also occur independently of each other. So, if the air in the room is too dry, itching may appear in the nasal passage, accompanied by sneezing.

If the allergen is not identified and not eliminated in time, allergic manifestations threaten to develop into chronic inflammatory processes with spread to other organs and turn into the so-called hay fever.

In such cases, the ENT doctor prescribes antihistamine nasal sprays, including Allergodil, Nasonex or Avamys.

Colds (infectious rhinitis)

Severe nasal itching and sneezing often occur in the early stages of acute respiratory viral infections. These symptoms are associated with swelling of the mucous membranes. Initially, there is discomfort in the nose, which then develops into a severe runny nose, which may be accompanied by a sore throat and high fever.

In the treatment of infectious rhinitis, drinking plenty of water, washing the nose with saline and vasoconstrictor drops is indicated.

Contaminated air

Air pollution, such as dust, cigarette smoke, plant pollen, or animal dander, is a common cause of itchy nose. In such cases, itching is concentrated inside the wings of the nose. Most often, such a sensation occurs in rooms with increased dryness during hot or frosty weather, and it is associated with drying of the mucous membranes and irritation of the epithelium with small particles in conditions of low humidity.

In addition to itching, polluted air provokes frequent sneezing, in some cases accompanied by tearing. To eliminate such symptoms, it is necessary to remove the irritant and rinse the nostrils with saline. In some cases, washing with cold water and wearing a mask may help.

In addition to the three main causes, there are a number of other factors that cause itchy nose.

Foreign object

Itching in the nasal cavity can provoke the entry of a foreign body there. In such cases, itching is usually accompanied by constant sneezing. Among the items that can cause such itching, the following can be distinguished.

1. Hypertrichosis – long hairs in the nostrils, which are recommended to be periodically shortened with small scissors.
2. The entry of animal hair into the nostrils, which must be removed by instillation and rinsing of the nose with saline solutions.
3. Small objects entering the nasal cavity, such as buttons, peas, etc. A similar problem is often observed in babies and requires the help of an otolaryngologist.

Fungal infection

The cause of itching is often a fungal infection, in particular with skin diseases such as lichen, eczema, candidiasis, psoriasis or demodicosis. In such cases, itching can be observed not only in the area of ​​uXNUMXbuXNUMXbthe wings, the tip or base of the nose, but also in other parts of the face.

With a fungal infection, symptoms such as sneezing and watery eyes are usually not observed, and any of the skin areas may be affected by itching. The area may be red, swollen, or peeling. Skin lesions on the nose can be combined with itching in other parts of the body. Treatment of such manifestations requires special patience and time, especially in cases of detection of the disease in children. After establishing the nature of the infection, the doctor selects the necessary ointment for treatment.

addiction to drops

The desire to scratch your nose may result from the abuse of vasoconstrictor drugs. Due to addiction to drops, drying of the epithelium and small vessels is observed, leading to itching with each new portion of the drops. At the same time, there is a resumption of the common cold within a quarter of an hour after the next instillation, and each use of the drops is accompanied by discomfort.

A similar reaction is possible not only for drops, but also for nasal ointments and sprays. In this case, it is better to refuse their use.

Wounds and injuries in the nasal cavity

Itching can be caused by microscopic wounds or injuries in the nasal cavity. Wounds in the epithelium that lines the cavity of the nostrils may appear as a result of the addiction to “pick” in the nose. In such cases, itching stops after complete healing of wounds or injuries of other origin.

The use of drops will help alleviate the condition, but the itching will stop only after the wounds have completely healed.

Wegener’s granulomatosis

The nature of this disease has not been fully elucidated to this day. The disease develops after a prolonged infection against the background of immune disorders. It is manifested by itching and discomfort in the nose, caused by ulceration of the mucous membrane. The disease is accompanied by headaches and frequent nosebleeds. Ulcerations can be localized on the wings of the nose, its tip or on the internal mucosa.

Associated symptoms of itchy nose

The symptoms of itchy nose fall into four main categories:

1. Constant itching.
2. Itching accompanied by sneezing.
3. Itching of mucous membranes with lachrymation.
4. Transparent highlights.

Most often, against the background of severe itching, burning, sneezing and lacrimation are observed. Also, depending on what kind of root cause causes itching in the nose, some specific manifestations may complement the clinical picture. So, an allergic reaction is manifested by symptoms in the form of increased lacrimation, runny nose and cough. Such symptoms may weaken or disappear completely if the provoking factor (allergen) is excluded.

The clinical picture in acute respiratory diseases (ARI) is characterized by severe itching against the background of fever, headache and sore throat, drowsiness, lacrimation, runny nose and general weakness. For colds with difficulty breathing, drugs are indicated that contribute to vasoconstriction. They are recommended to be instilled into the nose up to five times a day, as well as to rinse the nasal cavity with special solutions. In the absence of a positive effect, additional examination is necessary.

In the case of a fungal disease, the following symptoms are observed: severe itching against the background of a constantly dry mucous membrane, which is practically impossible to moisten with any drugs; constant sneezing and a feeling of congestion, which nasal drops and inhalations do not help eliminate; secretion of foul-smelling mucus, a feeling of lack of air and pain in the nasal passages.

Itching of the mucosa

The nose can constantly itch against the background of dryness of the mucosa. Dryness of the mucosa is accompanied by a burning sensation and the formation of crusts, a feeling of “congestion”. Additional symptoms include headache and nosebleeds.

Dryness of the mucosa can cause breathing difficulties and discomfort during sleep, as well as lead to the fact that the inhaled air is not sufficiently cleaned. The cause of dryness of the nasal mucosa can be climatic conditions in the region of residence, elevated room temperature, dusty air, or a reaction to medications.

Also, dryness of the nasal mucosa may indicate a number of diseases: it can be, for example, dry keratoconjunctivitis, accompanied by a chronic lack of moisture in the mucous membranes of the eyes and mouth, or an autoimmune lesion of the connective tissue (Sjögren’s syndrome).

Itchy nose and sneezing

Sneezing with itching in the nose is caused by irritation of the mucous membrane. Among the irritants can be not only allergens and gaseous substances (aerosols), but also house dust, animal hair, some plants, as well as perfumes and cigarette smoke.

When the body struggles with harmful substances, itching in the nasal passages, runny nose, swelling of the nose, reddening of the eyes, watery eyes and periodic bouts of malaise can be observed. For effective treatment, it is necessary to pass tests for allergens.

Itching of the wings of the nose

Very often, allergic reactions are accompanied by a short redness under the wings of the nostrils and at the tip of the nose. It is not recommended to remove the crusts formed under the wings of the nose, as this is fraught with the development of inflammation and even the formation of abscesses.

In such cases, consultation with a specialist is necessary.

Itching in the eyes and nose

In addition to nasal itching, allergic reactions may be accompanied by discomfort and a feeling of “sand” in the eyes associated with exposure to the inner surface, epithelium and skin of the eyelids of allergens, in particular plant pollen, cosmetics and household chemicals. So, with hay fever (pollen allergy), plant pollen enters the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth and eyes, causing bouts of itching and sneezing. After pollen enters the bronchi, the initial stage of allergy begins to develop.

Itching of the tip of the nose

Redness and itching of the tip of the nose can signal a nervous strain. As treatment, sedatives and topical ointments are indicated. In particular, the use of hyoxysone is recommended.

Also, severe discomfort (itching) at the tip of the nose may indicate inflammation of the hair follicles. In this case, the following clinical picture is observed: increased sensitivity of the nose to pressure, swelling and redness, an increase in body temperature to a subfebrile level, headache and general intoxication of the body.

How to get rid of an itchy nose

Regardless of the causes of discomfort on the mucous membrane, it is not recommended to ignore this problem, as well as self-medicate. The decision on treatment methods should be made by the doctor based on the results of a comprehensive laboratory and instrumental examination.

After examining the inner surface of the nose with a rhinoscope, the doctor must take an anamnesis and find out what preceded the burning sensation, whether crusts form in the nose, what is the patient’s general well-being, what other symptoms are present (headache, fever, cough, runny nose, etc.). ). Information is also needed on the use of any medical devices. After that, the doctor prescribes a culture of microflora from the nasal cavity to determine the causative agent of the disease, as well as a blood test and radiography of the paranasal sinuses.

If the disease is associated with an allergic reaction, i.e., its symptoms are provoked by plant pollen, animal hair, dust, tobacco smoke, mold and other allergens, it is enough to identify them and limit contact for a complete recovery.

It is also recommended to moisturize the mucosa at the first sign of dryness, increase immunity and maintain a favorable emotional climate.

In the case of the development of the disease, the basic treatment depends on the established diagnosis and includes both drug therapy (taking antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, immunostimulants, antihistamines, vasoconstrictor and antifungal drugs) and physiotherapy.

Physiotherapy is based on the property of a number of drugs to intensively penetrate the body under the influence of electric current (laser and magnetic effects).

In case of formation of non-healing ulcers in the nasal cavity (mucosal destruction), cauterization is indicated, with the help of which part of the damaged tissues is removed and the edges of the wound are sealed. Thus, the process of regeneration of the mucosa is started.

If conservative treatment fails, surgery may be required. Operations are usually performed in cases of deformities of the nasal septum or severe atrophy of the mucosa. Patients are operated on under general anesthesia in a hospital setting. Surgical treatment is practiced after 14-16 years, but in emergency cases it is possible to carry it out from the age of six.

First aid for itchy nose

To stop severe itching in the nose at home, washing the mucosa with saline solution (a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) or instilling a few drops of honey solution (if there is no allergy) is indicated. This procedure will improve the functioning of the mucosa, washes away allergens or dust from it.

In addition, it is recommended to maintain sufficient humidity in the room, in particular in the nursery. To do this, you can use a special device or a simple container with water installed in the area of ​​uXNUMXbuXNUMXbthe heating battery.

Crusts in the nose can be softened with tampons with vaseline oil. This procedure is especially indicated for infants, since nasal crusts have a detrimental effect on sleep and food intake.

In the absence of temperature and purulent discharge, heating of the nose and sinuses is indicated. Inhalations and compresses with essential oils (mint, menthol) will help relieve the burning sensation and cool the mucosa.

With abundant secretions, vasoconstrictor drops will help relieve the burning sensation. Nevertheless, it is not recommended to get involved in them, as they can cause mucosal atrophy.