Sores in Nose

Sores are open skin lesions or ulcers that could develop on any part of the body. These could even form inside the nose. These lesions may or may not be painful. At times, these may be accompanied by itching in the nose. The skin around the lesion may turn red and become tender to touch. These could get filled with fluid, that may ooze later. The associated symptoms could vary, depending on the underlying cause of nasal sores.

The causes of sores in the nose range from trauma, allergic reaction, to infections that could be caused by pathogens. Some of the common causes include:

Nasal sores could develop due to dryness in the nose. While the use of indoor heating devices keeps us warm in the winters, it could dry the inner lining of the nose. The lining may develop cracks, and this could sometimes be followed by nosebleeds.

Frequently blowing the nose forcefully could damage the skin and the soft underlying tissue, thereby leading to the development of sores in the nose. Since the nose has an abundant blood supply, trauma due to forcefully blowing or picking the nose could even lead to bleeding. Sores could also develop if aftercare measures are not followed after getting a nose piercing.

The mucous membrane that lines the insides of the nose keeps the nose moist. Since bacteria flourish in a moist environment, bacterial overgrowth could occur in the nose. The presence of pathogens such as bacteria or viruses could lead to infections, which in turn, could cause sores. If a person touches his/her nose or the nostrils with fingertips, without cleaning his/her hands, germs or dirt that may be present in the nails might enter the nose.

At times, pathogens may enter the nose through inhaled air. Pathogenic infections may lead to the development of nasal sores. Oral herpes, which is caused by herpes simplex virus-1, is an infection that is characterized by the formation of fluid-filled blisters around the lips or inside the mouth. It could even lead to the development of sores inside the nose.

The term 'folliculitis' refers to the inflammation of the hair follicles. Lesions could form in the nose if the follicles present in the nose become inflamed. This could occur due to trauma or infections. A cut or tear could develop while trimming nose hair, which in turn, may cause nose sores.

Impetigo is a bacterial infection of the skin that usually affects children. It is characterized by the formation of small sores on the face. While the sores appear as red spots initially, they may later turn into blisters that may ooze fluid. These may also become encrusted. This infection occurs when Staphylococcus or Group A Streptococcus bacteria enter through breaks in the skin. This is a contagious infection that could spread through person-to-person contact.

Inhalation of fumes from harsh chemicals or excessive use of nasal sprays could also damage the delicate skin inside the nose. At times, people may develop an allergic skin reaction to chemicals present in nasal sprays, or other inhaled corticosteroids that may be used to treat medical conditions such as rhinitis or asthma. Prolonged use of certain drugs could cause thinning of the skin, which in turn, could cause nasal sores.

Certain diagnostic tests are usually conducted to help the doctors identify the underlying cause of nasal lesions. If the lesions are a result of an infection, culture samples would be collected from the sores, so as to identify the causal organism.

The treatment for bacterial, viral, and fungal infections would involve the use of antibiotics, antiviral drugs, and antifungal drugs respectively. The affected individual would most likely be asked to apply a medicated cream topically. You could lower the risk of infections by following these self-care measures.

◘ Don't pick on your nose or blow it too hard.
◘ Rinsing the insides of your nose regularly will help in clearing the bacteria. This will lower the incidence of such sores.
◘ Wash your hands with an antiseptic or antibacterial hand wash before you touch your nose.
◘ Don't self-medicate. Use the medicines that have been prescribed by a doctor.

Since nasal sores could be caused by infections, do consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment. The problem of lesions in the nose will resolve quickly if you follow the precautionary measures, and take the medication as per your doctor's advice.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this story is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.