What causes the split in nostrils and should I use saline to provide moisture?
Patient: Every year I have a split in the skin (you can actually see the split with the two thicker sides) of my right nostril. I use to assume it was from dry air in the winter but here it is towards the end of April and even the Neosporine won t heal it. I do not have allergies and I happen to be a mouth breather (don t know why as if I concentrate I can breath through my nose). My question is, what actually causes the split? Should I be using saline to provide moisture? Thanks! Doctor: Bries answerAtriphic rhinitisDetailed answerHiGreetingsThanks for your query and welcome to the HCM what you are experiencing is just formation of crusts in your nostrilsExposure to dry and cold air can lead to atrophy of nasal mucosa and produces symptomsI would advise my patients to keep the nostrils well moisturised with normal saline and removal of crustshope this helps you, feel free to ask for follow up best luckREGARDSDr BR Hudda