Why should you stop picking your nose?

Nose picking is a common habit of many people. Nose picking can be due to many reasons such as dry or overly moist skin and you pick your nose to relieve discomfort. Some people have this bad habit because of boredom or anxiety. Allergies and sinus infections can also increase mucus in the nose.

Nose picking can be accompanied by stress or anxiety and other habits such as biting or scratching nails. For people with this condition, nose picking can provide short-term relief from anxiety.

Picking your nose is like popping a pimple, scratching a scab or cleaning your ear with a cotton swab, you know you shouldn’t but sometimes you just can’t stop. Nose picking doesn’t usually cause serious problems, but it can pose a risk to someone who is sick or has a weak immune system.

Infection: Fingernails can leave small cuts in the nasal tissue. Dangerous bacteria can find their way into these openings and cause an infection. A study published by the University of Cambridge found that people who pick their noses are more likely to carry the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus that causes many infections.

Spread of disease: Mucus catches dust, bacteria, viruses, and dirt that you breathe in every day. You can spread those germs if you pick your nose. One study found that people who pick their noses can spread bacteria that cause pneumonia.

Injury to the nasal cavity: Frequent or repeated nose picking can damage the nasal cavity. A study published in European Respiratory Journal, shows that people who pick their noses repeatedly may experience inflammation and swelling of the nasal tissue. Over time, this can narrow the nostrils.

Epistaxis: Scratching and picking in the nose can rupture delicate blood vessels leading to bleeding.

Ulcers: Nasal vestibulitis is inflammation in the opening and front of the nasal cavity. It is usually caused by a mild Staphylococcus bacteria infection. This condition can cause sores and pain. Likewise, when you pick your nose, you can pull the nose hairs out of the hair follicles. Small blisters or blisters can form in these cysts.

Damage to the nasal septum: vThe septum is a piece of bone and cartilage that separates the left and right nostrils. This bad habit can damage the septum and even cause a hole.

How to stop picking your nose?

Nose picking can be a habit you know you have to stop but sometimes just can’t do it. Here are some ways to stop this bad habit.

Nasal spray

If dry air leads to a dry nose, a saline spray quickly restores moisture and prevents dry and runny nose. Humidifiers can also increase the natural humidity in the room. Rinsing the nose with saline is a hygienic way to clear the nasal passages and sinus cavities.

Mouthwash can be effective during times like seasonal allergies, which are common. Mouthwash washes away pollen or allergens, which irritate the nasal passages and cause them to produce excess mucus.

Treatment of nose problems

You may need to diagnose the problem that is causing your runny nose. Dirty environments or nasty allergens can increase mucus production. Low humidity causes sinus dryness. Smoke and indoor allergens like dust and mustard irritate the nose.

When you need to identify the cause of these problems, reduce or eliminate them to better control nasal mucus production. This can reduce irritation that causes nasal problems.

Remind you to stop picking your nose

There are several ways you can remind yourself to stop. Adhesive tape is an easy, inexpensive option. Use a bandage to wrap the end of your dominant finger. Then, when your finger is in your nose, the bandage will remind you not to pick.

Find ways to reduce anxiety

People with chronic stress or anxiety find that nose picking provides temporary relief. However, it is safer for you to find ways to reduce stress.

Try playing some soothing music when your anxiety levels start to run high. Practice deep breathing by inhaling slowly and counting to 10, then exhaling and counting down to zero. If stress-reducing activities don’t work, see your doctor for guidance on how to manage it.

If you find yourself picking your nose a lot and can’t get rid of it on your own, you can see your doctor. They can help you find ways to manage your behavior and prevent possible side effects including infections and damage to your nose.

Kim Uyen
(According to Healthline)