Nose pain isn’t something we usually expect—until it shows up. Whether it’s a dull ache on the bridge, a stinging burn inside, or a sharp jab when you sneeze, nose pain can be surprisingly uncomfortable. But what actually causes it?
In this article, we’ll break it down in plain language—what nose pain is, why it happens, what causes it, and how to treat it. We’ll also talk about when it might be a sign of something more serious.
What Is Nose Pain?
Nose pain refers to any discomfort or tenderness in or around your nose. It can feel different depending on the cause:
- External pain: on the surface or bridge of the nose
- Internal pain: inside the nostrils or deeper in the nasal cavity
- Sinus-related pain: felt behind or between the eyes, cheeks, or forehead
This pain can come and go, be constant, or show up only when touched or moved.
How Does Nose Pain Happen?
Let’s keep it simple.
The nose is full of blood vessels, nerves, and delicate tissues. Inside, it’s lined with mucosa—soft tissue that keeps everything moist and traps dirt and germs. When this area gets inflamed, injured, or infected, the nerves send pain signals to your brain. That’s when you start noticing the ache.
Think of it like a car alarm—it’s a warning that something’s off, whether it’s a small bump or a deeper problem.
What Causes Nose Pain?
Nose pain has several possible causes. Here are the most common:
1. Trauma or Injury
A hit to the nose—whether from sports, a fall, or accidental bump—can bruise, fracture, or simply irritate the tissues.
- Common symptoms: swelling, bruising, tenderness, bleeding
- Fractures might cause your nose to appear crooked
2. Infections (30–50% of nose pain cases)
- Sinusitis: This is an infection of the sinuses (air-filled spaces behind your nose and eyes). Pain often spreads to your cheeks, forehead, or between the eyes.
- Nasal vestibulitis: Infection of the nostril opening, often caused by picking the nose or plucking nose hairs.
- Cold or flu viruses can also cause inflammation and soreness.
3. Allergic Rhinitis (20–30%)
Allergies cause sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion. Over time, this inflammation can lead to discomfort or even mild pain.
4. Dryness or Irritation
Too much blowing, dry air, or exposure to strong chemicals (like cleaning products) can dry out and irritate the inside of the nose.
5. Nasal Polyps or Tumours (Rare)
Polyps are soft growths inside the nose. While they usually don’t cause pain, large or infected ones can lead to pressure and aching. Tumours, although rare, may present with pain or bleeding.
6. Septal Deviation or Perforation
If the cartilage between your nostrils (septum) is bent or damaged, it can lead to chronic discomfort, especially if the airflow is uneven or crusting forms inside.
7. Shingles or Neuralgia
In rare cases, nerve pain (like from shingles) can affect the nose, leading to burning or tingling sensations.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can get nose pain, but some people are more likely to experience it.
- People with seasonal allergies or asthma
- Individuals who frequently blow their nose or pick at it
- Those working in dusty, smoky, or chemical-filled environments
- People with weakened immune systems (prone to infections)
- Children, especially those prone to sticking objects in their nose
Other Symptoms to Watch Out For
Nose pain rarely comes alone. Here are some other symptoms that can help narrow down the cause:
- Blocked or runny nose (infection or allergy)
- Facial pressure or headache (sinusitis)
- Bleeding or crusting inside the nose (dryness or injury)
- Foul-smelling discharge (foreign object or infection)
- Fever or fatigue (systemic infection)
If you experience blurred vision, swelling around the eyes, or stiff neck with nose pain—these can be signs of more serious sinus or brain infections. Seek medical help immediately.
Tests to Identify the Cause
The gold standard test depends on the suspected cause:
- Physical examination: Your doctor may use a light or a nasal speculum to look inside your nose.
- Nasal endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera can explore deeper parts of the nasal cavity.
- Imaging tests: If a fracture, tumour, or deep infection is suspected, a CT scan or MRI might be done.
- Swab or culture tests: To confirm a bacterial or fungal infection.
These tests help pinpoint the root problem and rule out anything serious.
How Is Nose Pain Treated?
Treatment depends entirely on the cause. Here’s a breakdown:
1. For minor irritation or dryness:
- Use a saline spray or gel
- Avoid harsh chemicals and over-blowing your nose
- Use a humidifier in dry rooms
2. For infections (like sinusitis):
- Mild cases: Rest, fluids, and decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine or nasal sprays)
- Moderate to severe: Antibiotics if bacterial infection is confirmed
3. For allergies:
- Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, loratadine)
- Nasal corticosteroid sprays (like fluticasone)
4. For injuries or fractures:
- Ice packs for swelling
- Pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
- For broken bones, ENT specialist care may be needed
5. For nasal polyps or severe blockages:
- Nasal sprays or oral steroids
- Surgery (such as endoscopic sinus surgery) if conservative treatments fail
Final Thoughts
Nose pain might seem like a small issue, but it can be a sign of something that needs attention. Most of the time, it’s caused by something simple like a cold, dryness, or allergies. But if the pain persists, is severe, or comes with worrying symptoms, don’t ignore it—get it checked.
Your nose does a lot more than you think—it filters air, smells the world, and protects your lungs. So when it hurts, it’s worth listening.
References
- Mayo Clinic – Nasal and sinus infections. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sinusitis
- American Academy of Otolaryngology – Nasal fractures. https://www.entnet.org/resource/nasal-fractures/
- Cleveland Clinic – Nasal Polyps. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8313-nasal-polyps
- WebMD – Nose Pain and Symptoms. https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/qa/what-causes-pain-in-the-nose
- British Society for Allergy & Clinical Immunology. https://www.bsaci.org