You know the feeling you have in your nose right before you sneeze? That tickling sensation usually goes away after a sneeze, but for some people that feeling lingers. Understanding the causes of this sensation can help you identify the right treatment to finally find relief.
Potential Causes
There are a number of reasons you may feel a tickle in your nose.
A Virus
Germs can enter your body through your nose. The mucus lining your nasal cavity is one of the ways your body protects itself, trapping and flushing out any unwanted particles. Sneezing can also help remove germs before they have a chance to get you sick.
The most common virus is the common cold; most adults have two or three colds every year. If you feel a tickle in your nose, this may be your body’s way of alerting you that you are about to come down with a cold.
Allergies
An allergy is your body’s immune system reacting to a harmless substance. Histamine is released in order to fight off the substance, which is responsible for your cold-like symptoms. In addition to seasonal allergies to pollens and grasses, pet dander and dust mites can cause allergy symptoms year-round.
Airborne allergens can irritate the lining of your nasal cavity and cause inflammation. This can create a tickling or itching sensation in your nose.
Sinusitis
A sinus infection occurs when the tissue that lines your sinuses swells or becomes inflamed. This prevents the cavity from properly draining, trapping fluid and germs, which can lead to an infection. Sinus infections can be acute, lasting just a few weeks, or chronic, lasting months at a time.
Nasal Tickle Treatments
There are several treatment options that can help you find nasal relief. These include:
- Avoiding your allergy triggers
- Taking over-the-counter allergy medication
- Using cold medication
- Blowing your nose less
- Using a humidifier
- Getting plenty of rest
- Drinking lots of water
Keeping yourself healthy is one of the best ways to prevent an itchy nose. Practicing proper handwashing protocol is key. To learn more about treating an itchy nose or to schedule an appointment with an ear, nose and throat expert, contact Charleston ENT & Allergy today.