There was a very long thread about
this subject on this site, but it got locked due to the length of the thread. I too have had this problem in the past. After reading the other threads on this subject, I have an idea about
what's going on. I think what everyone is experiencing is the healing process of a crack/cut/irritation in the skin due to dryness. And because it is in such a sensitive area, it causes maddening, itchy discomfort. Almost everyone that has complained about
this issue on this site either (1) uses a CPAP machine and wakes up with the problem, or (2) has a deviated septum and experiences the problem randomly, or (3) experiences this problem after running or vigorous exercise. All three of these senarios have increased air flow though the nostril(s) which causes the area to dry and crack. Most people report this happening in only one nostril, I think this is due to them having a dominant side that they breath through. I would assume this could also happen to someone that lives in a very dry environment. I used to experience this problem often and it all started when I began using my CPAP machine to sleep with. Like a lot of people on this site, I experienced some relief when using a rolled up tissue plug in my nostril to stop the air flow. One day I noticed a tiny blood dot on the tissue when I pulled it out, which hinted towards a cut. Ever since then, I started using my humidifier in my CPAP, and I haven't had the problem since. So I think the answer is preventative moisturizing. If you use a CPAP, use your humidifier. If you have the problem when running, use quite a bit of salene before and after running. If you have a deviated septum, use salene throughout the day and sleep with a humidifier. This may not work for everyone, but it worked for me.
Post Edited (Ray1234) : 5/6/2014 8:36:22 PM (GMT-6)