The dry nose

Abstract

One of the chief functions of the nose is to warm and moisten the inspired air, while another is to recover the water in the expired air. The nature of the in- and outflow of the air within the nasal cavity is of decisive importance for this air-conditioning feature. In this context, optimal distribution of the inspired air over the nasal turbinates ensuring intimate contact of the air with the surface-moist mucosal membrane is essential. The expression dry nose (DN) has not been unambiguously defined. In the main it is based on relevant anamnestic patient information. ENT specialists often employ the term rhinitis sicca, although here, too, a clear definition is lacking. Symptoms range from the purely subjective sensation of a somewhat dry nose to visible crusting of the nose, and a wide range of combinations are possible.