Differential Diagnosis for Single Side of Nose Hurts
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Sinusitis: This is the most likely diagnosis as sinusitis often causes pain on one side of the nose, especially if it's an acute infection. The pain can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal congestion, discharge, and headache.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Deviated septum: A deviated septum can cause pain on one side of the nose due to uneven airflow and pressure. This condition may also lead to nasal congestion and difficulty breathing through the affected nostril.
- Nasal polyps: Polyps in the nasal passage can cause pain, especially if they are large enough to obstruct airflow or touch the sensitive nasal lining, often affecting one side more than the other.
- Allergies: Seasonal or environmental allergies can cause inflammation and pain in the nasal passages, which might be more pronounced on one side due to the way allergens enter the nose.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Malignant tumor: Although rare, a tumor in the nasal cavity or sinuses can cause persistent pain on one side of the nose. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
- Invasive fungal sinusitis: This is a serious condition that can cause pain, especially in immunocompromised patients. It requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe complications.
- Cavernous sinus thrombosis: A blood clot in the cavernous sinus can cause severe headache and facial pain, including pain on one side of the nose, and is a medical emergency.
- Rare diagnoses
- Wegener's granulomatosis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis): An autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation of the blood vessels, including those in the nose, leading to pain and other symptoms.
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the nose, leading to pain and other nasal symptoms.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: A chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which can cause intense pain in parts of the face, including the nose, often on one side.