Causes and risk factors
Dry, hot, dusty environment causes drying of nasal secretions leading to rhinitis sicca.
Clinical presentation
Patient complains of crusting and drying of front part of the nose. There is nasal irritation. Nasal obstruction occurs. Patient is tempted to pick nasal scabs with fingernails which causes ulceration and epistaxis. Blood clots and scabs reoccur and the cycle repeats. Deep ulcerations caused by picking of nose lead to perforation of nasal septum.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis.
Treatment
Lubrication of the inner side of nose is required. This can be achieved with application of ghee, oil, petroleum jelly, etc. This will reduce scab formation and keep nasal mucosa moist. Alkaline nasal douching or wetting the scabs with plain water will loosen and remove them. It is necessary to change the habitat or work place if the person is living/working in a hot, dry environment, which can contribute further to its treatment.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating rhinitis sicca. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly, the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates is also found to be effective in treating rhinitis sicca.
