Colds can definitely result in a dry, stuffy nose, however things in your environment can, too. Annoying cigarette smoke and irritants like pollen, dust mites and animal dander can all result in that dry, stuffy feeling– that is, when the nose isn’t actively runny. Some cold and allergy medications can add to the dryness as well. Pregnancy and certain hormonal agent imbalances can cause nasal blockage too. Talk to your doctor if you have worsening or persistence of symptoms despite treatment.
Why my nose is dry and stuffy?
Infections
If it’s a bacteria, in addition to a runny and stuffy nose, you might have a cough, headache, sore throat, fever and body pains, and colds can last anywhere in between 2 and 14 days– in some cases even longer. With severe congestion, mucus drain might be impaired, leading to nasal obstruction, mouth breathing and nasal dryness. Antihistamines and decongestants may likewise exacerbate nasal dryness, so it is important to ensure the nasal passages wet and clear of mucus with the use of saline sprays. In addition, humidifiers can help alleviate dry winter season air to help in loosening the mucus in the respiratory tracts.
Airborne Irritants and Allergens
Environmental and airborne irritants such as cigarette smoke, pollen, family dust mites, mold and animal dander might result in episodic nasal blockage, runny nose, sneezing and watery and itchy eyes. Unlike the common cold, nevertheless, fever, body pains and pains do not typically accompany these episodes, which might last for weeks at a time. American Academy of Otolaryngology recommends treatment with anti-allergy medications including steroids and decongestants. Saline sprays and humidifiers should be used to avoid nasal dryness. And although a series of allergy shots can provide lasting advantages against the particular trigger allergens, the recognition and avoidance of the triggers is important to restricting the frequency of episodes.
Nonallergic Rhinitis
Sometimes, airborne and other irritants such as cigarette smoke, strong odors, cold air and alcohols; medical conditions, such as pregnancy or abnormal thyroid function; and medications, such as certain blood pressure-lowering medications or overuse of nasal decongestants, can all broaden the nasal capillary and result in nasal stuffiness in vulnerable individuals. The consistent and continuous use of nasal decongestant sprays may result in severe rebound blockage that is just eliminated by the added usage of the nasal decongestant. This cycle of nasal congestion is difficult to deal with and can only be prevented by using these sprays strictly according to the directions.
Chronic Infections and Nasal Polyps
Less commonly, a range of other conditions can produce nasal symptoms, including issues with the structure of the airways due to a deviated septum or nasal polyps. Nasal polyps are noncancerous growths that arise from reoccurring infections, allergies, asthma or medications. Numerous proliferations or a single large mass can block the nasal passages and result in inadequate mucus drain, breathing issues, loss of the sense of taste and reduced or absent sense of smell. Constantly see your doctor for nasal symptoms that appear odd or will not disappear.
Remedies for Dry and Stuffy Nose
Numerous remedies for relieving a dry nose can be bought with a single journey to your community pharmacy, or with things you currently have in your home!
1. Oil Jelly
Use your fingers to use a little dab of oil jelly to the lining within your nose. Not only is it helpful for ensuring your nose moisturized, it’s likewise safely dealt with by your stomach in percentages. Lip balm works too.
2. Humidifier
Sleeping with a dry mist humidifier in your bedroom can help increase the humidity in your space, which can provide relief to your nasal passages. Place the humidifier in the center of the space. Here’s a tip: do not point it at furnishings because the excess wetness can promote mold proliferation and damage wood surface areas.
3. Nasal Spray
Nasal sprays can be utilized to wet the nasal passages. Just do not overuse them because this can cause chronic dry nose.
4. Damp Wipes
Dampen a facial tissue with water using a spray bottle, and wipe along the lining of your nostrils. This can help avoid drying and irritation. You can also use baby wipes, which are created for cleaning delicate areas without triggering over-drying.
5. Steam or Sauna
A common home facial treatment, steam can also assist relieve a dry nose. You can even hang your head over a sink of hot water, but the effects of steam will not last for long.
Bonus offer Tip
Besides using wetness in the air, make certain you assist your body from the inside by remaining hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids like water or tea– especially if you have a dry nose during a cold– can help moisturize your nose from the in out.
