Few things are more irritating than the sudden onset of a tickle in nose.
You know the feeling – that maddening sensation that makes you want to sneeze or rub your nose vigorously. It’s the annoyance that can disrupt your focus, your conversations, and even your sleep.
We will discuss why this uncomfortable sensation occurs and how to bid it farewell.
Table of Contents
Why Does a Tickle in Nose Occur?
Before we discuss tackling the issue, you must first understand what’s causing a tickle in your nose.
The factors that may trigger this sensation are:
Allergies
Allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold can infiltrate your nasal passages, causing irritation and a tickling feeling.
Your body’s natural response is to sneeze, which helps expel these irritants. Your body’s natural response is to sneeze, which helps expel these irritants.
Irritants
Common irritants such as smoke, strong odors, or chemicals can irritate the sensitive lining of your nasal passages, leading to that uncontrollable urge to scratch or sneeze.
Dry Air
Dry and low-humidity environments can dry out your nasal passages, making them more susceptible to irritation and tickling. It is especially common during the winter months or in arid climates.
Infection
Viral or bacterial infections like the common cold or sinusitis can inflame the nasal passages, causing that itchy, tickling sensation.
Your body’s immune response includes increased mucus production, which can exacerbate the feeling.
Foreign Objects
Sometimes, a foreign object, like a tiny particle of dust or a stray hair, can get stuck in your nasal passages, setting off an irritating tickle.
How Does a Tckle in Nose Feel Like?
A tickle in nose is not just a minor inconvenience; it comes with a range of symptoms that can vary in intensity and duration.
Here are some common symptoms:
Sneezing
Sneezing is the most common response to a tickle in the nose. It’s your body’s way of expelling irritants and may provide momentary relief from the tickle.
Itching
An intense itching sensation within the nasal passages is a hallmark of a tickle in the nose. This itchiness can extend to the back of your throat, making you want to scratch or clear your throat.
Runny or Stuffy Nose
You may experience a runny nose as your body produces extra mucus to flush out irritants.
Conversely, your nose may become congested as the nasal passages swell in response to the irritation.
Suggested Read: How to Open Blocked Nose?
Watery Eyes
Excessive tearing is a common symptom, as your eyes respond to the irritation in the nasal passages. It can lead to watery, itchy eyes.
Difficulty Breathing
In severe cases, the tickling sensation can make it challenging to breathe through your nose, forcing you to breathe through your mouth.
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How to Get Rid of a Tickle in Nose?
Now that you know what’s causing that tickle in your nose, let’s explore some proven ways to get rid of this sensation:
Stay Hydrated
One of the simplest ways to combat a tickle in the nose is to ensure you’re adequately hydrated. Drinking adequate water helps keep the mucous membranes in your nasal passages moist, reducing irritation.
Suggested Read: How Much Water Should You Drink in a Day?
Use a Humidifier
In dry or cold environments, a humidifier can add moisture to the air, preventing your nasal passages from drying out and becoming more susceptible to irritation.
Nasal Saline Rinse
A saline nasal rinse can help flush out irritants and thin mucus, providing relief from a tickle in the nose. You can use a pre-made saline spray or make your own by mixing salt and water.
Avoid Allergens
If allergies are the culprit, try to identify and minimize your exposure to allergens. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers, and regularly clean your home to reduce dust and pet dander.
Steam Inhalation
Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can help moisten your nasal passages and provide temporary relief.
Adding a few drops of eucalyptus or menthol oil to the steam can also be soothing.
Over-the-Counter Antihistamines
Non-prescription antihistamines can help alleviate allergy-related tickling in the nose. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage instructions.
Neti Pot
A neti pot helps rinse the nasal passages with a saline solution. You may find it effective in flushing out irritants and mucus and getting relief from a tickle in the nose.
Nasal Strips
Adhesive nasal strips can help open up your nasal passages, making it easier to breathe and reducing the sensation of a tickle.
Avoid Irritants
If you know specific irritants trigger your tickle, try to avoid them. It means staying away from strong odors, quitting smoking, or using protective gear in situations where chemicals are present.
Stay Calm
Sometimes, a tickle in the nose is exacerbated by anxiety or stress. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can help calm your body’s response to the irritation.
Stay Allergy-Informed
Keep track of pollen and allergen counts in your area. Many weather apps and websites provide this information, allowing you to plan your outdoor activities accordingly.
When to Visit an ENT Specialist?
If you’re experiencing a persistent tickle in your nose, it’s advisable to consult with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist.
It is especially essential if the tickle persists for an extended time and you experience pain, nasal discharge, breathing difficulties, or changes in your sense of smell or taste.
Moreover, if you’ve had recent nasal injuries or chronic conditions like sinusitis, seeking the expertise of an ENT specialist is crucial.
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