Causes of a smelly nose
Main causes of the smelly nose
1. Atrophy of the nasal mucosa:
The smelly nose (also: Atrophic rhinitis, Ozeana) arises from the fact that the tissue of the nasal mucous membrane is atrophy (atrophy). The atrophied mucous membrane ensures that it is easier for certain germs to settle and multiply there. Since most of these germs give off a foul-smelling, putrid to sweetish scent, the characteristic odor occurs, which is the cause of the smelly nose.
2. Atrophy of the nerves
However, it is not only the mucous membrane that atrophies with a smelly nose. Also the Atrophy the nerve endings of the nosewhereby the person concerned cannot even perceive the smell with this cause of the smelly nose (Anosmia).
3. Destruction of the mucous glands
In addition, the tissue shrinkage also goes through the Function of the mucous glandswhy the nasal cavity no longer enough moisture gets and the Mucous membrane dries up. This means that the secretion in the nose is very viscous or even encrusted and germs can no longer be so easily "flushed out".
Primary and secondary causes of a smelly nose
One differentiates between one primary and one secondary Smelly nose.
The primary smelly nose
This is due to a genetic predisposition. It manifests itself in most of those affected in puberty and kick more common in women on.
The secondary smelly nose
she can various causes have all because of some form of Destruction of the nasal mucosa to Ozaena to lead.
- Often effect Nasopharynx tumors damage to the mucous membrane. Even if such tumors (or other tumors in the surrounding area of the face) are used with a radiotherapy can be treated because of the destructive effect radiation as the cause of a smelly nose.
- By Operations or others Injuries to the mucous membrane this can also be (secondary) damaged.
- Sometimes a long-term abuse of the active ingredient Xylometazolinethat results in decongestant Nasal drops or sprays located to a Dependence on nasal spray lead and encourage the development of a smelly nose (Privinism). A curvature or another leads more rarely Malformation of the nasal septum to a smelly nose as the cause.
Nasal spray as a cause of a smelly nose
The smelly nose, also called “rhinitis atrophicans cum foetore” in technical terms, is not infrequently caused by excessive and harmful use of nasal spray. Many people are dependent on nasal sprays, which is accompanied by a variety of complaints. Conventional nasal sprays are suitable to cause the nasal mucous membrane to swell in the situation and to ensure freer breathing for a brief moment. If the nasal spray is used continuously for weeks, the superficial cells of the nose unlearn to let the mucous membrane swell by itself. As a result, the improper use of nasal spray leads to permanent swollen nasal lining having difficulty breathing. The mucous membrane cells are damaged and die. Germs can settle and multiply at the site of the dead cells. A rare complication of this damage to the mucous membrane is consequently the smelly nose, which can arise from flourishing germs of the damaged nasal mucous membrane. The nose becomes encrusted from the inside and the sense of smell is also restricted. The stench can sometimes get so bad that people around you perceive it as very unpleasant. The stink nose should not only be treated for social and societal reasons. Immediately stopping the nasal spray and inhaling salt water can provide initial relief. Special ointments can improve the environment of the mucous membrane. Complete healing is often not possible.
