Here's What It Really Means When The Inside Of Your Nose Itches

An itchy nose might not sound too annoying at first, but it's one of those things that can get tiresome pretty quickly. In particular, an itch inside your nose can be even more irritating, and sometimes it just won't go away — even after you've sneezed. 

What does an itchy nose mean? A tickle in your nose might indicate an allergy, a virus, or something else, but there are a number of ways to try getting rid of it — though it'll depend on the cause. Winter allergies, for example, might be causing an itchy nose in the colder months, but this won't apply for everybody dealing with a nose that's itching. 

So, here's what it really means when the inside of your nose itches, and what you can do to relieve the sensation — we'll also expand on when it might be a good idea to see a doctor, as an itchy nose might signify a more serious underlying health condition (via Healthline).

Per Healthline, a tickle in your nose might be caused by an allergy to something around you. Common things people are allergic to include pollen, dust mites, and cat or dog fur — all of these and more can create a tickle in your nose and other symptoms that may resemble that of a cold. Your nose may also tickle thanks to various chemicals in the air, like fragrances or smoke. This is known as nonallergic rhinitis, and the effects are similar to that of an allergen, but there's no reaction from your immune system. However, it can be just as annoying as an allergy.

Allergens and environmental or chemical irritants aren't usually particularly dangerous — more annoying and frustrating than anything else. For relief, you may decide to take an antihistamine if an allergen is your trigger, or rinse your nose out with a nasal spray (via Medical News Today). Of course, it's always best to avoid the trigger in the first place, too — whether that means staying indoors when the pollen count is high, meeting a dog-owning friend at your house instead of theirs, or not joining your friends outside while they smoke. 

The common cold needs no introduction — most people have at least a couple of colds or similar viruses each year, and they can often cause an itchy nose. Often, a tickly nose can be one of the first indicators that you're coming down with a cold (via Healthline), as your nose tries to get rid of these new germs. 

Aside from viruses and the largely harmless irritants mentioned above, there are some other conditions that might make your nose tickle too. Sinusitis is one, while nasal polyps can also contribute to an itchy nose. Nasal tumors are another potential cause. They can either be cancerous or benign, and though rare, would likely need treating (via Healthline).  

You might decide to try and relieve symptoms with various over-the-counter and home remedies like nasal sprays, neti pots, and allergy medications, but should symptoms not improve over a long time, it may be best to see your doctor (via Medical News Today).