Nose Inner Cavity Infection: Could This Be a Nostril Pustule?
Nasal vestibulitis, a common bacterial infection affecting the entrance of the nose, is often linked to mechanical trauma and immune suppression. However, recent research has shed light on several additional risk factors that can contribute to its development.
Beyond the commonly known causes, metabolic, viral, allergic, infectious, and autoimmune factors play significant roles in the onset of nasal vestibulitis. Diabetes, for instance, can impair the immune response and increase susceptibility to infections like nasal vestibulitis [3].
Viral infections, such as the herpes simplex virus, can also contribute to the development of nasal vestibulitis alongside bacterial causes [5]. Persistent runny noses from allergies can lead to ongoing irritation and increased vulnerability to infection in the nasal vestibule [5]. Upper respiratory infections may predispose the nasal mucosa to secondary infections, including nasal vestibulitis [5]. Autoimmune diseases, like systemic lupus erythematosus, impair immune regulation and tissue integrity, thus increasing infection risk [5].
Excessive removal of nasal hairs can reduce the natural protective barrier of the nose against allergens and dust, potentially increasing the risk indirectly by allowing more irritants and microbes to enter the nasal passages [1].
Severe cases of nasal vestibulitis can progress to complications like cellulitis, especially if underlying risk factors impair healing [5]. It is therefore crucial to address these additional risk factors to prevent the development and progression of nasal vestibulitis.
Common symptoms of nasal vestibulitis include a pimple-like growth inside the nose, pain, crusting, swelling, dryness, itching, bleeding, unexplained oozing, and a recent history of nose injuries [6]. The main treatment for nasal vestibulitis is topical or oral antibiotics, such as mupirocin used twice a day for 14 days [6]. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic along with mupirocin and warm compresses [6].
Preventive measures include avoiding nose picking, plucking nasal hair, and touching the nose with unwashed hands; blowing the nose as minimally as necessary; seeking strategies for minimizing nose dryness; and seeking appropriate treatment for any other medical conditions, such as diabetes [7].
Individuals undergoing chemotherapy or taking immune-weakening drugs should be particularly vigilant, as cancer treatment and a weakened immune system due to certain conditions or medications can increase the risk of nasal vestibulitis [2].
While nasal vestibulitis is not usually an emergency, it is essential to seek medical attention if symptoms do not improve after a few days of taking antibiotics, the infection spreads, a person develops a fever after beginning to take antibiotics, or a person undergoing chemotherapy or taking immune-weakening drugs develops a dry, cracked, or sore nose [4].
In rare cases, if a person with a weakened immune system develops a fever, they should go to the emergency room straight away [4]. Moreover, when using rose geranium oil, it is advisable to wash hands before application to avoid spreading additional bacteria [8].
Rose geranium oil might help reduce nasal side effects of some cancer treatments; people undergoing chemotherapy can ask their doctors about using it [8]. Prompt medical treatment can improve nasal vestibulitis in just a few days, but if not treated, it can cause severe complications [9].
In conclusion, understanding the various risk factors associated with nasal vestibulitis is crucial for its prevention and timely treatment. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or symptoms related to nasal health.
References: [1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Nasal vestibulitis: Symptoms, causes, and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nasal-vestibulitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354700 [2] American Cancer Society. (2021). Mouth and throat problems during cancer treatment. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/mouth-and-throat/mouth-and-throat-problems-during-cancer-treatment.html [3] Lee, S. H., Jung, K. H., & Kim, S. K. (2018). Diabetes and nasal vestibulitis: A case report and literature review. Journal of Medical Case Reports, 12(1), 23. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13256-018-1694-y [4] Mayo Clinic. (2021). When to see a doctor. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nasal-vestibulitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354703 [5] Khanna, A., & Khanna, S. (2018). Nasal vestibulitis: A comprehensive review. Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, 70(4), 424–428. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12070-018-1294-2 [6] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Treatments and drugs. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nasal-vestibulitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354702 [7] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nasal-vestibulitis/prevention/drc-20354701 [8] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Rose geranium oil. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/rose-geranium-oil-pdq [9] Khanna, A., & Khanna, S. (2018). Nasal vestibulitis: A comprehensive review. Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, 70(4), 424–428. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12070-018-1294-2
- Diabetes, as a metabolic disease, can increase susceptibility to infections like nasal vestibulitis, impairing the immune response [3].
- Certain viral infections, such as the herpes simplex virus, can contribute to the development of nasal vestibulitis alongside bacterial causes [5].
- Persistent runny noses from allergies can lead to ongoing irritation and increased vulnerability to infection in the nasal vestibule [5].
- Autoimmune diseases, like systemic lupus erythematosus, impair immune regulation and tissue integrity, thus increasing infection risk [5].
- Autoimmune disorders, such as psoriatic arthritis, could potentially be a risk factor for nasal vestibulitis, though direct research is lacking [10].
- Bipolar individuals might experience depression, which could lead to poor self-care habits like nose picking and increased risk of nasal vestibulitis [11].
- Cancer treatment, particularly Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), and a weakened immune system can increase the risk of nasal vestibulitis [2].
- Breast cancer treatments may also cause skin changes, such as dryness or breakdown, on the face, including the nasal area, indirectly increasing the risk of nasal vestibulitis [12].
- Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, can compromise health-and-wellness, leading to poor hygiene habits and potential infection risks, like nasal vestibulitis [11].
- Science continues to explore the predictive relationship between nasal vestibulitis and other conditions, like Crohn's Disease or Multiple Sclerosis, although evidence remains limited [5].
