From the Guidelines
To treat recurrent nasal crusting due to dryness and allergic rhinitis in winter, use saline nasal sprays or rinses 2-3 times daily to moisturize nasal passages and clear irritants, as recommended by the most recent guidelines 1. The treatment approach should be individualized, considering factors such as the patient's age, symptoms, and comorbidities.
- For moisturizing, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or water-based nasal gels like Ayr or Secaris inside the nostrils twice daily using a cotton swab or clean fingertip.
- For inflammation, consider over-the-counter nasal steroid sprays like fluticasone (Flonase) or triamcinolone (Nasacort), using 1-2 sprays per nostril once daily for up to 2-3 weeks, as supported by evidence from 1.
- A humidifier in the bedroom can add moisture to the air, especially while sleeping, and drinking plenty of water can help maintain overall hydration.
- Avoid picking at scabs as this can worsen the cycle of irritation and bleeding.
- If allergic rhinitis is present, antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) taken once daily may help reduce inflammation, as suggested by 1. These treatments work by maintaining the nasal mucosa's moisture barrier, reducing inflammation, and supporting the natural healing process. If symptoms persist beyond 2-3 weeks despite these measures, or if fever or colored discharge develops, consult a healthcare provider for possible prescription treatments for a potential infection, as advised by 1 and 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Recurrent Nasal Crusting
- Saline nasal irrigation is a recommended treatment for upper respiratory conditions, including chronic rhinosinusitis and mild to moderate allergic rhinitis 2
- The use of intranasal corticosteroids combined with normal saline nasal irrigation has been shown to be effective in treating allergic rhinitis, with improved symptom assessment and quality of life 3
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays have been found to be suitable treatments for patients suffering from dry nose symptoms, with significant improvements in Rhinitis Sicca Symptom Score and individual symptoms 4
Combination Therapies
- The combination of large volume low pressure nasal saline irrigation and fluticasone propionate has been shown to be effective in treating pediatric acute rhinosinusitis, with improved clinical scores and peak nasal inspiratory flow measurements 5
- Once-daily nasal irrigation with saline or saline/gentamicin has been found to be safe and effective in treating pediatric chronic rhinosinusitis, with significant improvements in quality-of-life scores and CT scores 6
Key Findings
- Saline nasal irrigation is a safe and effective treatment for various upper respiratory conditions, with no reported serious adverse events 2
- The use of intranasal corticosteroids and nasal irrigation can provide better symptom control and quality of life for patients with allergic rhinitis 3
- Hyaluronic acid and isotonic saline nasal sprays can provide significant relief for patients with dry nose symptoms, with high tolerability and effectiveness 4