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Itchy Nose Treatments

If you're suffering from an itchy nose, it is most likely due to allergies or the common cold, though some skin conditions can also cause interior and exterior nasal itching. Treating your nasal itchiness depends largely on its cause, but nasal itchiness treatments are simple, inexpensive and offer relief until your cold or allergies pass.

  1. Allergies

    • There are signs to help you determine if your itchy nose and other symptoms are caused by allergies. Allergies produce clear, runny mucus; do not cause fever; tend to cause multiple sneezes in rapid succession and generally last longer than the common cold. Though the best way to treat allergies is to determine its cause and avoid it, this is not always possible. To treat allergy related nasal itchiness temporarily, however, you can try over-the-counter antihistamines. These will alleviate itchiness as well as runny nose and itchy eyes, though they may cause drowsiness. Prescription antihistamines may offer stronger relief without drowsiness.
      For permanent treatment, allergy shots can reduce nasal itchiness. For this to work, however, you and your doctor must first determine the cause of your allergies. The shots work by gradually introducing small amounts of the allergens into your system to build up your immunity. The treatment takes up to six months.

    Common Cold

    • Colds are caused by viruses that cause allergy-like symptoms, including runny nose and inflamed nasal passages. To reduce itchiness caused by a cold, salt water sprays, warm drinks (such as tea) and humidifiers can alleviate nasal discomfort and itchiness. Saline sprays flush and moisturize the nasal passages and do not have the harmful side effects (rebound congestion) of other nasal sprays. Warm beverages and humidifiers moisturize dry nasal passages and soothe inflammation.
      Antihistamines won't help nasal itchiness caused by a virus. Antibiotics won't help either, and their unnecessary use will contribute to the growing issue of antibiotic resistance. Cold medications tend to have numerous medications to treat multiple symptoms. Before choosing one, read the label carefully and choose one that treats nasal irritation without extra medications for symptoms you don't have.

    Skin Irritations

    • Skin conditions such as psoriasis can also cause interior and exterior nasal itchiness. If your itchy nose is caused by a skin condition, visit your dermatologist for diagnosis. Common treatments for skin-related itchiness include keeping the skin cool and moisturized, drinking plenty of water and consulting a dermatologist for prescription medications such as corticosteroids, synthetic vitamin D, retinoids, coal tar and prescription strength moisturizers. If your skin condition is psoriasis, diet can also help control it to some extent. The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends varying your diet, cutting down on sugar and sodium, watching your fat intake, and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables.

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