An irritated nose can be a pesky symptom of seasonal allergies. Primary care doctors can help relieve your allergy symptoms, but you may be left with a dry and irritated nose. It can become very painful if the irritation is left untreated. Here are a few tips for treating an irritated and dry nose.

How to Alleviate a Dry Nose 

1. Hydration 

If you’re experiencing a dry nose, try increasing your water intake. Dehydration can cause your nasal passageways to become dry, irritated, and flaky. To stay hydrated, drink about eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.

2. Nasal Spray 

When experiencing a dry nose from allergies, primary care doctors may try to help clear nasal passages by administering a saline spray. This can alleviate any irritants in the sinuses. It can be purchased over the counter, so you don’t need a prescription. Before administering the spray, wash your hands with soap and water. Then, follow the instructions on the label to ensure that you’re administering the treatment properly. 

3. Steam 

To moisten your nasal passageways, practice steam inhalation three to five times a day, or as needed. To do this, boil water and pour it in a glass bowl. Then, place a towel or blanket over your head, also covering the bowl, and inhale the steam for temporary relief.

4. Consult Primary Care Doctors 

It’s important to pay attention to your symptoms and the length of time that your nose has been irritated. A constantly irritated nose can be a sign of a greater issue. If you experience pain, nosebleeds, or infection, consult your primary care doctor right away. If your symptoms persist or continue to become more irritated, it could be a sign of a greater issue, such as Sjogren's syndrome or Atrophic rhinitis. Your primary care doctor will rule out a more serious condition. 

The primary care doctors at Patient Choice Medical Care in New Haven County, CT, treat a variety of ailments, from the common cold to allergy-related issues. The team conducts annual physicals and screenings to ensure their patients remain healthy and to diagnose any early signs of health problems. To schedule an appointment, call (203) 535-0262 or visit their website for more information about their services.