The most common reason for the presence of scabs in the nose is the dryness of the nasal mucosa. This can be due to different factors.

The presence of scabs inside the nose is most often the consequence of a persistent dryness of the nasal mucosa, or of an inflammation of this mucous membrane (this is called rhinitis).

The scabs are usually painful to the touch, and when they come off, there may be minor bleeding. They tend to reappear quickly.

They are benign but can be troublesome, especially when they cause repeated bleeding. They reflect a weakening of the nasal mucosa, the role of which is to “filter” impurities from the air and to form a barrier against bacterial or viral infections.

Scabs in the nose can be associated with other symptoms such as:

• a runny nose;
• a feeling of nasal dryness;
• or even symptoms characteristic of rhinitis (such as sneezing, lacrimation, etc.).

In most cases, scabs in the nostrils are not serious and are caused by dryness of the nasal lining.

They can also form following an injury to the mucous membrane, for example with a fingernail, tweezers, or after the formation of a small pimple.

When the nasal mucosa is irritated or dry, small lesions may appear and a scab may form. This irritation can be due to several factors, among others:

• too dry air (on the plane, in a hot desert country, in winter because of the heating, etc.);
• chronic nasal discharge due, for example, to an infection of the ENT sphere or to allergic rhinitis;
• with aging, with age, the mucous membranes actually tend to dry out;
• a pathology leading to abnormal dryness of the mucous membranes, such as Gougerot-Sjögren syndrome;
• repeated lesions, caused for example by intranasal cocaine use;
• or even smoking.

If the scabs in the nose are caused by lesions in the lining and this is not taken care of, then there is a risk that the pathogens will enter the body more easily. As a result, the risk of infection is increased.

It is therefore important to restore the good health of the nasal mucosa quickly.

If the scabs in the nose are related to dry air, for example from heating in winter, using a humidifier may solve the problem. It will restore a more comfortable humidity level (between 35 and 50%).

In case of prolonged rhinitis, a medical consultation is required. Taking antibiotics or antihistamines (in case of allergy) is sometimes necessary to reduce symptoms.

Nasal washes with salt water (such as sea water or physiological serum) are recommended to maintain good hydration and facilitate cleaning of the nasal cavity. If the nose is sore, the use of a mild spray is recommended.

Finally, it is possible to apply an ointment to relieve irritation, such as petroleum jelly, on the most painful scabs. Consult your pharmacist.