Regular nose-picking can seriously damage the nasal mucosa, leading to infections that spread to the sinuses, causing suppurative sinusitis and abscess formation. If left untreated, it can even become life-threatening. It took weeks of painful treatment for the condition to improve.
Many people have the habit of picking their noses without realizing that this seemingly harmless habit can have serious consequences.
1. How does “runny nose” form?
The nasal mucosa secretes mucus to moisturize the air and trap dust, bacteria, and other particles. When these substances accumulate and dry out, they form “runny nose.” The feeling of blockage and itchiness often leads people to unconsciously pick their noses for relief.
There are several reasons why people tend to pick their noses:
Physiological: Dry nasal mucosa can be irritating, leading to nose-picking to relieve the itch.
Psychological: It can be an unconscious habit, similar to biting nails when anxious or stressed.
Pathological: Conditions like rhinitis or sinusitis can make people pick their noses more frequently to relieve congestion and itchiness.
2. Nose-picking: An open door for bacteria
Our hands come into contact with countless surfaces harboring bacteria, such as phones, doorknobs, and keyboards. When we use our hands to pick our noses, bacteria can easily enter through the delicate and vulnerable nasal mucosa. This can lead to nasal infections, sinusitis, and even life-threatening brain infections.
3. Four consequences that nose-pickers may face:
– Nasal mucosa damage: The nasal mucosa is delicate and rich in small blood vessels. Repeated scratching and picking can cause tears and bleeding. Prolonged damage can weaken the nose’s defense mechanism, making it more susceptible to infections.
– Rhinitis and sinusitis: Bacteria from the hands can enter through wounds caused by picking, leading to infections. Symptoms include nasal congestion, purulent discharge, headaches, and fever.
– Vestibulitis: Repeated stimulation of the nasal vestibule can lead to redness, pain, and even ulceration and scab formation, making treatment challenging.
– Risk of intracranial infections: The nasal blood vessels communicate with the brain. Nasal infections can spread to the brain, causing life-threatening conditions such as meningitis and brain abscesses.
If you experience nasal itchiness, use saline solution to gently clean the nose. You can also use a cotton swab dipped in saline solution to remove any mucus instead of using your fingers. Kick the nose-picking habit today to protect your health.
