How to Treat a Dry Atrophic Nose

Atrophic rhinitis is a form of chronic rhinitis that causes your mucous membrane to atrophy and the nasal passage to dilate, dry out and harden. Cells similar to those found in the skin replace those that have hair-like projections, which are usually found in the nasal cavity's mucous membrane. Atrophic rhinitis occurs more often in the elderly, and the cause is often viral, although it can result from bacterial infections and other irritants. The goal of treatment is to eliminate odor, restore nasal hydration and reduce crusting.

Things You'll Need

• Humidifier
• Topical antibiotics
• Vitamin A and D spray
• Estrogen spray
• Mineral oil or glycerin
• Rose water or menthol
• Oral antibiotics

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Instructions

• 1

  Use a humidifier to moisten the air and promote air circulation in your house.

• 2

  Spray a topical antibiotic, such as bacitracin, inside your nasal cavity.

• 3

  Spray vitamins A and D or estrogen into the nose to promote mucous production and reduce crusting.

• 4

  Rub anti-evaporation compounds, such as mineral oil or glycerin, in the nose to increase hydration and prevent drying out. Mix menthol, rose oil or other odor-masking ointments with the anti-evaporation topical treatment.

• 5

  Make an appointment with a doctor if symptoms persist. The doctor can prescribe antibiotic therapies or systemic therapies to alleviate the dryness.

• 6

  Follow a systemic antibiotic therapy using oral or intravenous medications that contain either floroquinolone or tetracycline to decrease discharge and odor. Pairing oral and systemic therapies with topical treatments, such as anti-evaporation compounds, can increase hydration and prevent drying.

• 7

  Contact an otolaryngologist---an ear, nose and throat specialist---to discuss surgical options to narrow the nasal passage. This might prevent the mucous membrane from drying because of a decrease in airflow.