The main function of the nose is to provide breathing. The air is cleaned and warmed by the mucus layer and hairs in the nose. This prevents harmful particles and microbes in the inhaled air from entering the body, thus protecting the health of the respiratory system. The nose is also home to olfactory receptors, which are the center of the sense of smell. These receptors detect various odors and transmit them to the brain, helping us recognize the world around us. In daily activities such as cooking, smelling flowers or detecting a dangerous substance, the nose plays a role that improves our quality of life. The mucosal layer in the nose undertakes the task of protecting the body against microbes. This layer increases resistance to diseases by creating a barrier against bacteria and viruses. Additionally, the blood vessels in the nose optimize the respiratory system by warming the air passage.
What causes wounds in the nose?
Sores inside the nose can occur for a number of reasons and can often be uncomfortable. Some factors that cause sores inside the nose:
- During cold winter months or in dry climates, low humidity levels in the air can dry out the mucous membrane inside the nose. This dryness can cause cracks and sores to form inside the nose.
- Experiencing frequent nasal congestion can cause constant friction and irritation of the tissues inside the nose. In this case, sores may develop inside the nose.
- Blows to the nose, accidents or trauma during sports activities can cause wounds inside the nose. Damage to the mucosal layer may cause bleeding and wounds.
- Prolonged nasal dryness can cause cracking and injury to the tissues inside the nose. This condition is often associated with chronic nasal congestion, allergies, or side effects of certain medications.
- Viral or bacterial infections can cause inflammation and sores inside the nose. This condition often occurs during respiratory infections such as colds or sinusitis.
- Exposure to harmful chemicals inside the nose can cause irritation and sores. These chemicals can often originate from various sources of air pollution or some work environments.
Sores inside the nose can often be painful, lead to nosebleeds, and cause breathing difficulties. In this case, it is important to consult your doctor and consider appropriate treatment methods. Often, humidifiers, nasal sprays, antibiotics, or other treatments can help heal sores inside the nose.
Intranasal wounds may occur for various reasons. The most common causes include colds, flu, allergies, nosebleeds, nose piercings, and certain medications. Treatment of intranasal wounds varies depending on the cause and severity of the wound. Mild sores usually heal on their own within a few days. However, in more severe wounds or if the wounds do not heal, it is necessary to seek medical help. Some methods that can be applied in the treatment of intranasal wounds are:
- Gargling with salt water: Salt water has antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help heal wounds. Add a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water and stir. Gargle this mixture several times a day.
- Gargling with chamomile or sage: Chamomile and sage have anti-inflammatory properties that help wounds heal. Add a teaspoon of chamomile or sage to a glass of boiling water and let it brew for 10 minutes. Gargle this mixture several times a day.
- Using painkillers and antibiotics: Pain medications help relieve pain and discomfort caused by sores. Antibiotics help prevent wounds from becoming infected.
- Using nasal sprays: Nasal sprays help reduce discharge and congestion caused by intranasal sores.
- Removing nose piercing: Nose piercing can cause wounds inside the nose. Therefore, removing the piercing can speed up the healing of wounds.
How to heal a wound inside the nose?
Sores inside the nose can often be painful and uncomfortable. However, most of these wounds can heal on their own, and it is possible to support a faster healing process with some measures taken at home. Home treatment methods for intranasal wounds are as follows:
- Using clove oil: Clove oil has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Apply clove oil to the wound by dropping it onto a cotton swab.
- Using honey: Honey has antibacterial and antiseptic properties that accelerate the healing of wounds. In addition to applying honey directly to the wound, it may also be beneficial to gargle by mixing some honey with water.
- Using baking soda: Baking soda has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of warm water and mix. Gargle this mixture several times a day.
- Prevent scratching of wounds. Scratching can cause sores to get worse.
- Avoid touching wounds. Touching wounds can increase the risk of infection.
- Apply tampons to the wounds. Tampons help prevent wounds from bleeding and speed up healing.
- Drink enough fluids. Drinking enough fluids helps speed up the healing of wounds.
- Moistening: Using a humidifier can moisturize the mucosal layer inside the nose and speed up healing. Water vapor inhalation can also be used for this purpose.
- Hot Water Steam: Hot water vapor inhalation can moisturize the mucosa inside the nose and reduce inflammation.
- Nasal Saline Solution: Regularly rinsing the inside of the nose using this solution can support the healing process.
It should not be forgotten that everyone’s situation is different and these recommendations may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional for treatment options appropriate for your specific condition.
What causes persistent intranasal sores?
Persistent intranasal wounds may be caused by various reasons. The most common cause of intranasal wounds is infection. Infections such as colds, flu, sinusitis or allergies can cause sores inside the nose. Allergic rhinitis is another common cause of intranasal sores. Allergic rhinitis is an immune system reaction that occurs when you come into contact with allergens such as dust, pollen or animal dander.
Nose piercing can cause wounds inside the nose. Trauma, especially during insertion or removal of the piercing, can cause scarring. Some medications can cause sores inside the nose. Examples of these drugs are corticosteroid drugs, chemotherapy drugs and some antibiotic drugs. Vitamin deficiency, especially vitamin B12 deficiency, can cause intranasal sores. Other factors include smoking, dry air and exposure to chemicals.
Treatment for persistent intranasal wounds varies depending on the cause of the wound. If it is due to infection, antibiotics or antiviral medications may be used. If it is due to an allergic reaction, antihistamines or corticosteroid medications may be used. If it is caused by a nose piercing, the piercing may need to be removed. If it is caused by other factors, eliminating these factors may help wounds heal.
Intranasal wounds are caused by which vitamin deficiency?
Vitamin B12 deficiency is one of the most common causes of intranasal sores. Vitamin B12 is necessary for the healthy functioning of red blood cells and the nervous system. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause irritation and injury to the nasal mucosa, which can lead to sores. Other symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, difficulty concentrating and forgetfulness.
To prevent vitamin B12 deficiency, it is important to add foods rich in vitamin B12 to the diet. Foods rich in vitamin B12 include red meat, chicken, fish, dairy products and eggs. Taking vitamin B12 supplements may also help. It is important to see a doctor if you suspect vitamin B12 deficiency. The doctor may test your vitamin B12 levels and recommend vitamin B12 supplements if you are deficient.