Symptoms
Possible symptoms associated with dry nasal mucosa include crusting, the formation of mucus with a high viscosity, nosebleeds, rhinitis, disorders of the sense of smell, inflammation, and obstruction, i.e., restricted nasal breathing. Itching and mild burning may also occur, according to the literature. The stuffy nose is very uncomfortable, especially at night, and can lead to sleep disturbances. It tempts the use of decongestant nasal sprays such as active ingredients like xylometazoline, which lead to rhinitis medicamentosa and dependence if used regularly.
Causes
Causes of dry nasal mucosa include (selection):
- Low humidity, for example, in winter.
- Infectious diseases such as a cold with a cold.
- Adverse effect of drugs, such as decongestant nasal sprays, retinoids, anticholinergics and 1st generation antihistamines.
- Intoxicant abuse, for example, cocaine.
- Systemic diseases, such as Sjögren’s syndrome.
- After surgery.
- By a supply of oxygen.
- Age and heredity.
- Irritants such as smoking.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is made in medical treatment on the basis of the patient’s history and with the help of an inspection of the nasal mucosa. The specialists are ENT physicians.
Nonpharmacologic treatment
- Increasing the humidity of the air, for example with a humidifier.
- Sufficient fluid intake.
- Care and cleaning of the mucous membrane, removal of crusts.
- Discontinuation or change of the triggering drugs.
- Turning off the air conditioner.
- Inhalation of water vapor.
- Triggering factors influence.
- Treatment of causative infectious diseases.
- Prevent the development of local trauma, for example, “picking the nose“.
- Avoid environments with low humidity.
Drug treatment
Nasal ointments:
- Are nourishing and hydrating ointments, which are intended for use in the nostrils. They may contain active ingredients such as dexpanthenol, salts such as sea salt or Emser salt, essential oils or hyaluronic acid.
Moisturizing nasal sprays:
- Are nasal sprays that moisturize the mucous membrane. They contain, for example, seawater, Emser salt and saline solution, as well as active ingredients such as dexpanthenol and other vitamins, ectoin and plant extracts.
Nasal rinses (nasal douches):
Inhalations:
Nasal oils:
- Are nasal products (sprays or drops) based on fatty oils. They may also contain additives such as essential oils. The introduction of kerosenes into the nose is controversial because it can cause lipid pneumonia.
Parasympathomimetics:
- Such as pilocarpine are available in tablet form and stimulate glandular secretion. They are prescribed in a severe course, for example in Sjögren’s syndrome.