The burning sensation of the nose can be triggered by several factors such as climatic changes, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis and even menopause. The burning nose is not usually severe, but it can cause discomfort for the person. In addition, if the burning is accompanied by fever, dizziness or bleeding nasal is indicated to go to the doctor, so that the correct diagnosis can be made.
The nose is responsible for heating and filtering the air, preventing the entry of microorganisms and pollutants such as dust, for example. Thus, the nose corresponds to one of the barriers of defense of the organism, however some situations can dry out the mucosa of the nose and cause the sensation of burning or burning. The 7 main causes of burning in the nose are:
1. Climate change
Dry weather is the main cause of burning of the nose. This is because too much hot or too dry air dries out the airways, which makes the person feel his nose burn when he breathes, for example.
In addition to the dry weather, staying too long exposed to air conditioning can dry out the mucosa and lead to burning of the nose.
What to do: One of the ways to prevent dry nose burning is by putting a bowl of water in the room as it helps to keep the air slightly moist. In addition, it is important to drink plenty of water and perform nasal lavage with 0.9% saline solution. Here's how to do the nasal wash.
2. Allergic rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa caused by the presence of irritating substances such as dust, pollen, animal hair or feathers, perfume or disinfectants, for example. These substances cause irritation of the mucosa, leading to coryza and itchy nose, in addition to causing a burning sensation. Know what causes allergic rhinitis and how the treatment is done.
What to do: To avoid allergic rhinitis, it is important to thoroughly clean the house, identify the allergy causing agent and avoid it. In more severe cases, the allergist may recommend the use of antihistamines or anti-allergic vaccines.
3. Sinusitis
Sinusitis is sinus inflammation characterized by headache, feeling of heaviness in the face, coryza and consequently burning nose sensation. Sinusitis can be caused by both Influenzae virus and bacteria, and it is important to identify the infectious agent so that the treatment established by the doctor is effective.
What to do: The treatment for sinusitis is defined by the doctor according to its cause: antibiotics, when caused by bacteria, or anti-fluids, when caused by viruses. In addition, nasal decongestants can be used to relieve headaches. Understand sinusitis and how to treat it.
4. Flu and cold
Both the flu and the cold can cause burning of the nose, due to irritation of the mucosa by the presence of viruses in the airway, sneezes and coryza. Find out the difference between flu and cold.
What to do: To combat both the flu and the cold it may be appropriate to take medicine to relieve symptoms, such as acetaminophen, in addition to drinking too much liquid, such as juice and water.
5. Medications
Some medications have as a side effect the dryness of the nasal mucosa, such as nasal sprays or decongestants. Some sprays contain substances that can irritate the nose and may increase susceptibility to infections, for example.
What to do: If the burning of the nose is related to the use of medicines, it is important to see the doctor for suspension and replacement of the medication. In the case of nasal decongestants, the doctor may indicate the use of some that does not contain chemicals that cause irritation.
6. Menopause
Menopause, which is characterized by the end of menstruation, can cause the dryness of various mucous membranes of the body, including the nasal, which can lead to burning of the nose. Learn all about menopause.
What to do: Normally menopause treatment is done to relieve your symptoms through hormone replacement as directed by your gynecologist.
7. Sjogren's syndrome
Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease caused by inflammation of various glands in the body, leading to dryness of the mouth, eyes and, more rarely, the nose. Here's how to identify and diagnose Sjogren's syndrome.
What to do: As soon as symptoms such as dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, difficulty speaking, dry eyes and sensitivity to light appear, it is important to consult the rheumatologist to confirm the diagnosis and start treatment.
When to go to the doctor
It is indicated to go to the doctor when the burning in the nose lasts more than a week and when other symptoms appear, as:
- Difficulty breathing;
- Headache;
- Sore throat;
- Nasal bleeding;
- Fainting;
- Dizziness;
- Fever.
In addition, if there are dry mucous membranes, such as the mouth, eyes and genital, it is important to consult the doctor, as it may be more serious diseases, such as Sjogren's syndrome.