Main causes of the stinky nose
1. atrophy of the nasal mucosa: The stinky nose (also: rhinitis atrophicans, Ozeana) is caused by a shrinking of the tissue of the nasal mucosa (atrophy). The atrophied mucous membrane makes it easier for certain germs to settle and multiply. Since most of these germs emit a foul-smelling, putrid to sweetish odor, the characteristic odor is produced, which is the cause of the stinky nose.
2. atrophy of the nervesHowever, a stinky nose does not only atrophy the mucous membrane. The nerve endings of the nose also atrophy, which means that the person affected by this cause of the stinky nose cannot even perceive the smell (anosmia). 3. destruction of the mucous glandsIn addition, the function of the mucous glands is also destroyed by tissue loss, which is why the interior of the nose no longer receives sufficient moisture and the mucous membrane dries out. This means that the secretion in the nose is very viscous or even encrusted and germs can no longer be “flushed out” as easily.
Primary and secondary causes of a stinky nose
A distinction is made between a primary and a secondary stinky nose. This is caused by a genetic predisposition. It manifests itself in most people at puberty and occurs more frequently in women.
It can have various causes, all of which lead to ozaena due to some form of destruction of the nasal mucosa.
- Tumors of the nasopharynx often cause damage to the mucous membrane. Even if such tumors (or other tumors in the surrounding facial area) are treated with the help of radiation therapy, the destructive effect of the radiation as a cause can lead to a stinky nose.
- Surgery or other injuries to the mucous membrane can also cause (secondary) damage to it.
- Sometimes long-term misuse of the active substance xylometazoline, which is found in decongestant nasal drops or sprays, can also lead to a dependence on nasal spray and promote the development of a stinky nose (privinism).
More rarely, a curvature or other malformation of the nasal septum can also lead to a stinky nose.
The stinky nose, also called “Rhinitis atrophicans cum foetore” in the technical language, is often caused by excessive and harmful use of nasal spray. Many people are addicted to nasal spray, which is associated with many different complaints. Conventional nasal sprays are suitable to reduce the swelling of the nasal mucous membrane and to ensure a freer breathing for a short moment.
If the nasal spray is used permanently for weeks, the superficial cells of the nose unlearn to let the mucous membrane decongest by itself. As a result, the misuse of nasal spray leads to permanent swelling of the nasal mucosa and breathing difficulties. The mucosal cells are damaged and die off.
Germs can colonize and multiply at the site of the dead cells. A rare complication of this mucous membrane damage is therefore the stinky nose, which can be caused by flourishing germs in the damaged nasal mucous membrane. The nose becomes encrusted from the inside and the sense of smell is also restricted.
The stink can sometimes become so bad that surrounding people perceive it as very unpleasant. The stinky nose should not only be treated for social and societal reasons. The immediate discontinuation of the nasal spray and inhalation of salt water can provide initial relief.
Special ointments can improve the environment of the mucous membrane. A complete cure is often not possible.
