Nasal Vestibulitis: Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors and Treatment

Nasal vestibulitis (or nasal folliculitis) is a rare form of bacterial infection that occurs at the nose’s opening. It can look like a small bump or sore in the nose. It can often occur after hair follicles become infected. For example, after someone picks at their nose or pulls out their nose hairs.

Nasal vestibulitis can also be increased by certain cancer treatments. The nasal vestibule is the area between your nostrils. It is the entrance to your nasal cavity.

Nasal vestibule inflammation is caused by excessive blowing or picking at the nose. Although it is often easy to treat, severe complications can occur.

Infections are often caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus Aureus. Secondary causes of infection include chronic rhinorrhea, viral infections, and URIs. Nose picking is also a possible secondary cause.

Other infections such as folliculitis can cause pimples at the root of nasal hairs, which can lead to crust formation in the nostrils.

This article will provide information about nasal vestibulitis and the treatments available. It also includes when you should see a doctor.

Facts about Nasal Vestibulitis:

• Contagiousness: Some forms of nasal vestibulitis are contagious, while others are not, depending on the root cause. Contagious forms can spread through indirect contact.
• Rare but Serious Risk: Although extremely unlikely, researchers believe the infection could potentially spread to the brain or skull if left untreated.
• Primary Cause: Nasal vestibulitis often occurs when people pick their noses excessively. Recurrent nose infections and folliculitis can also contribute.
• Quick Treatment: With prompt medical attention, the infection can often be resolved within a few days.
• Severity: While usually not a serious condition, it can lead to severe complications in rare cases.
• Common Treatments: Nasal vestibulitis is typically treated with topical antibiotic creams, such as mupirocin (Bactroban) or bacitracin. Oral antibiotics may be needed in more severe cases, especially if boils develop. Source: NCBI
• Duration of Treatment: Topical ointments may need to be used twice daily for up to 14 days.
• Odor: Nasal vestibulitis can sometimes cause a foul smell in the nose due to bacterial overgrowth.

What is Nasal Vestibulitis?

Nasal vestibulitis is a bacterial infection that occurs in the nasal vestibule, the area just inside your nostrils that marks the beginning of your nasal passages. Think of it as the entrance hall to your nose. This part of the nose is lined with skin containing hair follicles, making it susceptible to infection. The infection is commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, often referred to as a “staph infection.”

While often triggered by seemingly harmless habits like excessive nose-picking or forceful nose-blowing, nasal vestibulitis can also arise from other factors, including viral infections like herpes simplex, chronic runny nose due to allergies, or even as a side effect of certain cancer treatments. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), staph bacteria are a common cause of skin infections, and the nose provides a warm, moist environment where they can thrive.

Although nasal vestibulitis is usually mild and easily treated with topical antibiotic ointments, it’s important to be aware that in rare cases, it can lead to more serious complications if left untreated. These complications can include the spread of infection to nearby veins, potentially leading to a condition called cavernous sinus thrombosis, a rare but life-threatening blood clot in a large vein at the base of the skull. For this reason, it is not advised to squeeze pimples or boils inside the nose.

Nasal vestibulitis is a bacterial infection affecting the nasal vestibule, the area just inside the nostrils lined with hair follicles. It’s most commonly caused by Staphylococcus bacteria entering through small cuts or abrasions, often resulting from nose picking, excessive nose blowing, or nasal piercings. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, tenderness, pimple-like bumps, and in some cases, crusting or bleeding inside the nose. A doctor typically diagnoses it through a physical examination and may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics for treatment.

Nasal Vestibulitis Symptoms

The symptoms of nasal vestibulitis can vary depending on the cause and severity of the infection. While mild cases may only cause slight discomfort, more severe infections can lead to noticeable inflammation and pain. Here’s a detailed look at common symptoms, according to sources like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Mayo Clinic:

• Redness and Swelling: The inner lining of the nostrils (nasal vestibule) may become visibly red and swollen. This inflammation is a natural response of the body to the bacterial infection. Citation: NIH – Nasal Vestibulitis Overview.
• Tenderness and Pain: The affected area inside the nose is often tender to the touch and may cause pain, especially when blowing the nose or applying pressure. The pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp, throbbing sensation.
• Pimple-like Bumps: Small, red bumps resembling pimples may appear inside the nostril, particularly at the base of nasal hairs. These bumps may be filled with pus and are a sign of infected hair follicles.
• Folliculitis: This term refers to the inflammation of hair follicles. In nasal vestibulitis, folliculitis manifests as crusty bumps or sores around the base of nasal hairs. These areas may be itchy, painful, and prone to bleeding. Citation: Mayo Clinic – Folliculitis.
• Crusting: The presence of dried discharge or mucus inside the nostrils is common. This crusting can be yellow or green and may make breathing slightly more difficult.
• Boils (Furuncles): In more severe cases, larger, pus-filled bumps called boils, or furuncles, can develop within the nasal vestibule. These are deeper infections that are more painful and may require medical intervention.
• Pus Drainage: The infected area, whether it’s a pimple or a boil, may drain pus. This discharge can be thick and yellow or greenish in color.
• Fever: While less common in mild cases, a fever may develop if the infection is more severe or spreads. A fever is generally a sign that the body is fighting a more widespread infection and should be evaluated by a doctor.
• Bad smell: Nasal vestibulitis can cause a bad smell in your nose. This is caused by bacteria overgrowth on the frontal nostrils.

Important Note: If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they worsen or are accompanied by a fever, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Self-treating can be risky, and a doctor can determine the best course of action based on the severity of your infection. They can also rule out other conditions that might mimic nasal vestibulitis.

Nasal vestibulitis is an infection of the nasal vestibule, the area just inside your nostrils, typically caused by Staphylococcus bacteria. Symptoms vary in severity but commonly include:

• Redness and swelling inside the nostril
• Painful bumps or pimples (folliculitis) at the base of nasal hairs
• Crusting around the nostrils
• Tenderness to the touch

More serious symptoms, which require prompt medical attention, include:

• Fever
• Spreading redness and swelling to the outer nose, cheek, or upper lip
• Severe pain and swelling that make it difficult to touch the nose
• Nose Boils (furuncles or carbuncles)

Mild cases may resolve with topical antibiotic ointments. However, consult a doctor if symptoms worsen, don’t improve after a few days, or if you experience any of the severe symptoms listed above.

What causes nasal vestibulitis?

Nasal vestibulitis is primarily caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus (often referred to as a “staph infection”). This bacterium is a common culprit in various skin infections. The infection typically starts when there’s a break in the skin within the nasal vestibule, the area just inside your nostrils. This can happen due to several factors:

• Nose Picking: This is a very common cause, often leading to irritation and sometimes a pimple inside the nose. Picking your nose can introduce bacteria and create tiny abrasions or cuts, providing an entry point for infection.
• Excessive Nose Blowing: Forceful or frequent nose blowing can irritate the delicate lining of the nasal vestibule, making it more susceptible to infection.
• Plucking Nasal Hairs: Removing nasal hairs by plucking can leave small open wounds and irritate hair follicles, increasing the risk of infection.
• Nose Piercings: Any piercing creates an opening in the skin, and nose piercings are no exception. The body treats the piercing site as an open wound until it heals, making it vulnerable to bacterial entry and infection.

Other Potential Infectious Causes:

While less common, other infections can also contribute to nasal vestibulitis:

• Viral Infections: Herpes simplex virus (which causes cold sores) and herpes zoster virus (which causes shingles) can sometimes affect the nasal vestibule.
• Chronic Rhinorrhea: Persistent runny nose, often due to allergies or chronic sinus infections, can irritate the nasal lining, creating an environment conducive to infection.
• Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs): Frequent colds or other URIs can lead to increased nose blowing and irritation, raising the risk of nasal vestibulitis.

Risk Factors that Increase Susceptibility:

Anyone can get nasal vestibulitis, but certain factors increase the likelihood:

• Weakened Immune System: Individuals with conditions like diabetes, HIV, or those undergoing treatments like chemotherapy, have weakened immune systems, making them more prone to infections, including nasal vestibulitis. Certain medications can also compromise the immune system.
• Frequent Nose Cleaning: Ironically, excessive cleaning or manipulating the inside of the nose, even with tissues or cotton swabs, can cause trauma to the delicate nasal lining and increase infection risk.
• Habitual Wetting of the Nose: Constantly wet or moist environments can irritate the nasal lining and make it more vulnerable to infection.
• Cancer Treatments: As mentioned earlier, certain cancer treatments, especially targeted therapy drugs, have been linked to an increased risk of nasal vestibulitis. This is likely due to their effects on the immune system and the potential to cause dryness and cracking of the nasal lining. A 2015 study found a higher incidence of nasal vestibulitis in patients receiving these treatments.

Bacterial Nasal Diseases and Their Progression

Bacteria, primarily Staphylococcus, can cause various issues within the nasal vestibule, ranging from minor irritations to more serious infections:

Nasal Folliculitis

Minor infections often manifest as nasal folliculitis, characterized by small pimples or pustules at the base of nasal hairs. This can also lead to crusting around the nostrils. Excessive nose picking or blowing can contribute to folliculitis. While often treatable with topical ointments like mupirocin or bacitracin, it’s important to address the underlying cause to prevent recurrence.

Nasal Furuncles (Boils)

More severe infections can result in nasal furuncles, commonly known as nose boils, within the nasal vestibule. These are deeper, more painful infections that can potentially spread to the surrounding skin, causing cellulitis at the tip of the nose.

The “Danger Zone” of the Face

It’s important to note that infections in the area from the corners of the mouth to the bridge of the nose, often referred to as the “danger zone” of the face, require careful attention. This is because the veins in this region connect with the cavernous sinus, a large venous structure at the base of the brain.

Serious Complications:

In rare but serious cases, infections like nasal furuncles can lead to cavernous sinus thrombosis, a life-threatening condition where a blood clot forms in the cavernous sinus, often due to the spread of infection. Bacteria from a nasal furuncle can travel through the facial veins to the cavernous sinus.

Other potential intracranial complications include:

• Ophthalmic vein thrombosis: A blood clot in the ophthalmic vein, which drains blood from the eye.
• Cavernous sinus thrombosis: as mentioned above.
• Orbital abscess: A collection of pus in the tissues around the eye.

Antibiotic Use and the Nasal Microbiome:

While antibiotics are often necessary to treat bacterial nasal infections, it’s crucial to use them judiciously and only as prescribed by a doctor. Our noses, like other parts of our bodies, harbor a complex community of bacteria, known as the nasal microbiome. Overuse of antibiotics can disrupt this delicate balance, potentially leading to the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and resistant strains of Staphylococcus. These bacteria are often implicated in sinus and throat infections.

Treatment Approaches:

Mild cases of nasal vestibulitis may respond to warm compresses and topical antibiotic ointments. However, if there’s no improvement, or if the infection worsens, oral antibiotics may be necessary. In cases of large boils or the spread of infection, a doctor may need to drain the boil, and systemic antibiotics will likely be prescribed.

Understanding the various factors that contribute to nasal vestibulitis is crucial for prevention and effective treatment. Maintaining good nasal hygiene, avoiding trauma to the nasal lining, and addressing underlying health conditions can significantly reduce the risk of this often painful and potentially serious infection. Always consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment if you suspect you have nasal vestibulitis.

Treatment for Nasal Vestibulitis

The treatment approach for nasal vestibulitis depends on the severity of the infection. Mild cases can often be managed at home, while more severe infections may require medical intervention.

First-Line Treatment: Topical Antibiotics

Most cases of nasal vestibulitis respond well to topical antibiotic ointments. Common and effective options include:

• Bacitracin: Bacitracin is an antibiotic medication used to prevent minor skin infections caused by cuts, scrapes, or burns. It works by stopping the growth of certain bacteria. Bacitracin is available as an ointment, cream, or powder for topical use and comes in over-the-counter and prescription strengths. It is also sometimes given as an injection to treat pneumonia in infants. This antibiotic ointment is readily available over-the-counter at most drugstores (source).
• Mupirocin (Bactroban): Mupirocin (Bactroban) is a topical antibiotic used to treat bacterial skin infections, including impetigo and folliculitis.  It’s also effective at eliminating MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) from the nasal passages.  Mupirocin works by preventing bacteria from growing. This is a prescription-strength antibiotic ointment that is highly effective against Staphylococcus aureus, the bacteria most commonly responsible for nasal vestibulitis.

How to Apply Topical Ointments:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Use a clean cotton swab to apply a thin layer of the ointment to the affected area inside the nostril.
3. Apply twice daily, or as directed by your doctor or the product instructions.
4. Continue treatment for the full prescribed duration, typically 1-2 weeks, even if symptoms improve sooner. This helps prevent the infection from recurring and reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Severe Cases: Oral Antibiotics and Medical Intervention

If the infection is severe, does not respond to topical treatment, or if boils (furuncles) develop, your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics. These may include:

• Dicloxacillin: Dicloxacillin is a penicillin antibiotic that treats bacterial infections
• Cephalexin: Cephalexin is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. It belongs to the family of medications known as cephalosporins. It can be used to treat infections of the throat, skin, ear, bladder, respiratory tract, and bone. Cephalexin works by killing the bacteria causing the infection
• Clindamycin: Clindamycin is an antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. It’s available in various forms, including capsules, liquids, and topical gels. It’s commonly prescribed for serious infections like respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and certain types of abdominal infections.

It’s important to take oral antibiotics exactly as prescribed and to complete the entire course of treatment.

Important Note: Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern. Using antibiotics appropriately and only when necessary helps preserve their effectiveness.

Nose Boils (Furuncles):

Large, painful nose boils may require additional medical attention. Applying warm compresses to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, three times a day, can help bring the boil to a head and encourage drainage. Do not attempt to squeeze or pop a nose boil yourself, as this can worsen the infection and increase the risk of complications. Sometimes, these boils can be mistaken for pimples. If you are concerned you have a pimple in your nose, read our article, “[How To Get Rid Of A Pimple Inside The Nose]” for guidance. In some cases, a doctor may need to make a small incision to drain the boil. This procedure should only be performed by a medical professional in a sterile environment.

When to See a Doctor:

• Symptoms do not improve after a few days of home treatment.
• The infection worsens or spreads.
• You develop a fever.
• You have a weakened immune system due to a medical condition or medication.
• You experience severe pain or swelling.
• You have recurrent bouts of nasal vestibulitis.

Home Remedies and Supportive Care:

While topical antibiotics are typically the most effective treatment, some home remedies can provide relief and support the healing process:

• Warm Compresses: As mentioned, applying warm compresses several times a day can help soothe the area, reduce inflammation, and promote drainage.
• Saline Nasal Rinse: Gently rinsing the nasal passages with a saline solution can help keep the area clean and moist. You can purchase pre-made saline solutions or make your own by dissolving 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized salt in 8 ounces of distilled or boiled (and cooled) water.
• Rose Geranium Oil: A 2018 study (PMID: 30377210) suggested that rose geranium oil might help reduce nasal vestibulitis symptoms in patients undergoing certain cancer treatments. The oil can also help prevent nosebleeds. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety for general use. If you choose to use rose geranium oil, dilute it with a carrier oil (such as almond oil or jojoba oil) before applying it to the skin, and be sure to wash your hands afterward. Always consult with a doctor first before using essential oils.
• Maintain Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your face or nose.

Preventing Recurrence:

• Avoid nose picking and excessive nose blowing: These habits can irritate the nasal lining and introduce bacteria.
• Keep the nasal passages moist: Use a humidifier, especially during dry seasons, or apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the inside of the nostrils.
• Address underlying conditions: If you have allergies or recurrent sinus infections, seek appropriate treatment to manage these conditions, as they can contribute to nasal vestibulitis.
• Avoid plucking nose hairs: If necessary, trim nose hairs carefully with clean scissors instead of plucking.
• Discuss with your doctor if you are undergoing cancer treatment: Certain cancer therapies can increase the risk of nasal vestibulitis. Your doctor can provide strategies to minimize this risk.

When to See a Doctor for Nasal Vestibulitis?

While many cases of nasal vestibulitis resolve with home treatment, it’s important to know when to seek professional medical help. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing complications and ensuring a full recovery.

Consult a doctor if:

• Symptoms persist or worsen after 2-3 days of home treatment with over-the-counter antibiotic ointment: If you’ve been applying a topical antibiotic cream like bacitracin and your symptoms, such as pain, redness, or swelling, haven’t improved or are getting worse after a few days, it’s time to see a doctor.
• You’ve been prescribed antibiotics, but your symptoms don’t improve or worsen after 2-3 days: If a doctor has prescribed oral or topical antibiotics (like mupirocin) for nasal vestibulitis treatment and your condition hasn’t improved within a couple of days, or if it worsens, a follow-up appointment is necessary. The infection may require a different antibiotic or further evaluation.
• You develop a fever: A fever is a sign that the infection may be spreading and should never be ignored. This is especially important if you are experiencing symptoms of nasal infection or nose boils. Seek medical attention promptly.
• You have signs of the infection spreading: This includes increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pain around the nose or on the face (potential cellulitis), severe headache, vision changes, or confusion (possible signs of cavernous sinus thrombosis). These are serious symptoms that require immediate medical attention.
• You have a weakened immune system: If you have a condition like diabetes, HIV, are undergoing cancer treatment (such as chemotherapy), or are taking medications that suppress your immune system, you’re at higher risk for complications from infections. Even mild symptoms of nasal vestibulitis should be evaluated by a doctor promptly. Itchy, dry nose can be early sign of nasal vestibulitis in patients with weakened immune systems.
• You experience recurrent bouts of nasal vestibulitis: Frequent or recurring infections could indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed by a healthcare professional.
• You are concerned about your symptoms: If you are ever unsure or worried about your symptoms, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult a doctor.

Important Considerations:

• Nasal vestibulitis itself is not typically a medical emergency. However, complications arising from it can be.
• A fever, especially when accompanied by other signs of a spreading infection, is a serious symptom that warrants immediate medical attention.
• Individuals with compromised immune systems should seek medical care promptly for any signs of infection, including nasal vestibulitis.
• Don’t hesitate to discuss any other symptoms you’re experiencing with your healthcare provider. Symptoms like chills, fatigue, or general malaise could indicate a more widespread infection.

Nasal Vestibulitis in Children:

If your child develops symptoms of nasal vestibulitis, especially if they are accompanied by a fever or seem unusually unwell, consult a pediatrician. Nasal vestibulitis in toddlers and young children can be particularly concerning due to their developing immune systems.

Nasal Vestibulitis During Pregnancy:

If you are pregnant and suspect you have nasal vestibulitis, it’s essential to consult with your doctor or obstetrician. They can determine the safest and most effective nasal vestibulitis treatment options for you.

Potential Complications of Nasal Vestibulitis

While nasal vestibulitis is often a mild and treatable infection, it’s important to be aware that more serious complications can arise, particularly if left untreated or if the individual has a weakened immune system. Recognizing worsening symptoms and seeking timely medical attention are crucial for preventing these complications. Let’s explore some of the potential issues:

Possible Complications:

• Cellulitis: This bacterial skin infection can develop when the Staphylococcus bacteria causing nasal vestibulitis spread to the deeper layers of the skin around the nose or face. Symptoms of cellulitis include redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and tenderness in the affected area. In severe cases, cellulitis can lead to fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. Prompt treatment with oral or intravenous antibiotics is essential to prevent further spread of the infection. Mayo Clinic – Cellulitis
• Furuncles (Boils) and Folliculitis: Nasal vestibulitis can lead to the development of furuncles, also known as boils, which are deeper infections of the hair follicle. It can also result in folliculitis, a more superficial inflammation of the hair follicles. Furuncles are characterized by the presence of a hard, red, painful lump that gradually fills with pus. Folliculitis presents as small, red, pimple-like bumps, sometimes with pus, surrounding the hair follicles. While often mild and treatable with topical antibiotics, severe or recurrent cases may require oral antibiotics. Mayo Clinic – Folliculitis
• Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis (CST): This rare but very serious complication can occur if the infection spreads from the nasal area to the cavernous sinus, a large vein located at the base of the brain. CST involves the formation of a blood clot in the cavernous sinus, obstructing blood flow and potentially leading to severe consequences. Symptoms can include severe headache, high fever, bulging eyes, double vision, pain or numbness around the eyes or face, and difficulty moving the eyes. CST is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment with high-dose intravenous antibiotics and, in some cases, anticoagulants (blood thinners) or surgery.

The “Danger Triangle” and CST Risk

It’s crucial to understand that the area from the corners of the mouth to the bridge of the nose, including the nose and upper lip, is often referred to as the “danger triangle” of the face. Infections in this area, such as nasal vestibulitis, carry a higher risk of spreading to the cavernous sinus due to the unique network of veins connecting these regions. While CST is rare, its potential severity underscores the importance of prompt and proper treatment of any nasal infections.

Prevention and When to Seek Medical Help

Preventing nasal vestibulitis and its complications primarily involves practicing good hygiene and avoiding actions that can irritate the nasal passages. Here are some key preventative measures:

• Avoid Nose Picking: This is a major cause of nasal vestibulitis, as it can introduce bacteria and cause small abrasions.
• Gentle Nose Blowing: Blow your nose gently and only when necessary to avoid irritating the nasal lining.
• Proper Handwashing: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before touching your face or nose, to prevent the transfer of bacteria.
• Humidifier Use: If you experience nasal dryness, using a humidifier can help keep the nasal passages moist and less prone to irritation.
• Manage Underlying Conditions: If you have allergies or frequent sinus infections, consult with a doctor to manage these conditions effectively. They can increase the risk of nasal vestibulitis by causing inflammation and irritation.

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional

It’s important to consult a healthcare professional immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Symptoms of nasal vestibulitis that do not improve or worsen after a few days of home treatment.
• Signs of cellulitis, such as spreading redness, swelling, warmth, and pain around the nose or face.
• Severe headache, high fever, vision changes, or any other symptoms suggestive of cavernous sinus thrombosis.
• A weakened immune system due to a medical condition or medications.

Nasal vestibulitis, while often a minor and easily treatable condition, should not be taken lightly. That persistent, irritating sore in your nose could be more than just a nuisance; it’s a sign that your body is fighting off an infection.

Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking prompt treatment are crucial to prevent potential complications, some of which can be quite serious.

By practicing good hygiene, avoiding the all-too-common habit of nose-picking, and addressing underlying health issues, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this uncomfortable nasal infection.

Remember, if you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, especially fever, chills, or signs of infection spreading, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Early intervention is key to ensuring a quick recovery and maintaining optimal nasal health, allowing you to breathe easy and stay healthy

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get rid of nasal vestibulitis?

Nasal vestibulitis, an infection inside the nostrils, is often treated with a topical antibiotic ointment, such as bacitracin. Applying the ointment inside the nose as directed helps clear the infection. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic like mupirocin. Warm compresses can also provide relief and help drain any buildup. See a doctor if symptoms worsen or don't improve.

How do you know if you have nasal vestibulitis?

Nasal vestibulitis is an infection of the area just inside your nostrils, often caused by bacteria. You might have it if you experience the following symptoms inside your nose: redness, painful swelling, tenderness to the touch, pimple-like bumps, crusting, or frequent nosebleeds. It's common to feel pain or sensitivity when you touch the outside of your nose where the infection is located. Since other conditions can cause similar symptoms, it's crucial to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

What does nasal vestibulitis look like?

Nasal vestibulitis often appears as redness, swelling, and crusting inside the nostrils, particularly at the opening. You might also see small, painful bumps or pimples (pustules) inside the nose. In some cases, the area may crack or bleed. The skin inside your nose may also feel very tender, dry, or itchy. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's best to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Is nasal vestibulitis contagious?

Nasal vestibulitis is contagious. It is most commonly caused by a staph bacterial infection, often from excessive nose picking, blowing, or plucking nasal hairs. The bacteria can spread through direct contact with the infected area or contaminated objects like towels or tissues. In some cases, it may also be caused by a viral infection, such as herpes simplex.

Can nasal vestibulitis heal on its own?

Mild nasal vestibulitis, an infection of the nasal vestibule, often heals on its own within a few days. Keeping the area clean and applying a warm compress can aid healing. However, if symptoms worsen, include severe pain, fever, or spreading redness, or if the condition doesn't improve after a week, it's crucial to consult a doctor. They may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics, especially if the infection is bacterial. Untreated, severe cases can lead to complications like cellulitis or furunculosis.

Can Neosporin be used to treat nasal Vestiblitis?

While Neosporin is a topical antibiotic ointment effective against some bacteria, it's not the standard treatment for nasal vestibulitis. This condition, an infection of the nasal vestibule (the area just inside your nostrils), is often caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Doctors typically prescribe Mupirocin ointment for nasal vestibulitis, as it's more effective against this bacteria. Using Neosporin inside the nose is generally not recommended due to potential irritation and the risk of antibiotic resistance. Always consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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