Is Spraying 75% Alcohol in the Nose Safe? ENT Concerns and Advice

Questions related to disinfectant alcohol?

Dear Doctor,
This morning I had a sudden idea and sprayed 75% denatured alcohol into my nasal cavity (without inhaling).
I only realized afterward that this might be harmful.
Could this damage my nasal mucosa, nasopharynx, or other organs? During the pandemic, I often lose my rationality and do foolish things.
Sigh~~ Should I urgently make an appointment to see a doctor? How should I handle this next, or do I need to apply any medication? Thank you for your selfless responses and efforts.

DDD, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/17

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if there are no obvious discomforts such as nosebleeds, nasal congestion, or abnormal sense of smell, you can observe for now.
Please be careful not to use alcohol in the nasal cavity again.
Wishing you safety and good health.

Reply Date: 2021/06/17

More Info

Using 75% alcohol in the nasal cavity raises several concerns regarding safety and potential effects on the nasal mucosa and other related structures. While alcohol is a common disinfectant, its application in sensitive areas such as the nasal passages can lead to irritation and damage.

Potential Risks of Spraying Alcohol in the Nose
1. Mucosal Irritation: The nasal mucosa is delicate and can be easily irritated by substances that are not specifically formulated for nasal use. Spraying 75% alcohol can cause dryness, burning sensations, and inflammation of the mucosal lining. This irritation can lead to discomfort and may even result in nosebleeds if the mucosa becomes too dry or damaged.

2. Absorption and Systemic Effects: Although the nasal cavity has a rich blood supply, the amount of alcohol that could be absorbed through the nasal mucosa is relatively small. However, if large amounts were sprayed or if it were done repeatedly, there could be a risk of systemic absorption, leading to potential alcohol toxicity, especially in sensitive individuals.

3. Risk of Infection: The nasal passages serve as a barrier to pathogens. Disrupting the mucosal integrity with alcohol can compromise this barrier, potentially increasing the risk of infections such as sinusitis or rhinitis.

4. Chemical Burns: In some cases, concentrated alcohol can cause chemical burns to the sensitive tissues in the nose. This could lead to long-term damage if not addressed promptly.

Recommendations for Management
1. Immediate Action: If you have sprayed alcohol in your nose, it is advisable to rinse your nasal passages with saline solution or plain water to dilute and remove any residual alcohol. This can help minimize irritation and potential damage.

2. Observation: Monitor for any symptoms such as persistent burning, pain, or unusual discharge from the nose. If these symptoms occur, it may be necessary to seek medical attention.

3. Avoid Further Irritation: Refrain from using any additional irritants in the nasal area, including other forms of alcohol or harsh chemicals.
4. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you experience significant discomfort, bleeding, or any other concerning symptoms, it is important to consult an ENT specialist or a healthcare provider. They can assess the extent of any damage and provide appropriate treatment, which may include topical ointments or medications to soothe the mucosa.

5. Preventive Measures: In the future, avoid using substances that are not specifically designed for nasal use. There are saline nasal sprays and other products available that are safe for nasal application and can help with hygiene without the risks associated with alcohol.

Conclusion
In summary, while a one-time exposure to 75% alcohol in the nasal cavity may not lead to severe consequences, it is not advisable due to the potential for irritation and damage to the nasal mucosa. If you experience any adverse effects, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Always prioritize safety and use products as intended to avoid unnecessary health risks.

Similar Q&A

Is Inhaling Alcohol Safe? Understanding Risks and Health Concerns

Hello Doctor, due to the current pandemic, my father is very anxious and has been looking for ways to cope. He mentioned that he sprayed 75% alcohol onto a cotton ball and inhaled it three times (according to his own account). Is this safe? Could it cause harm, and should I inter...

Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello: Currently, there is no practice of using alcohol to prevent COVID-19 infection. It is recommended to wear a mask when entering hazardous places!

Accidental Alcohol Spray in Nose: Risks and When to Seek Medical Help

Hello, Dr. Hong. Last night, while I was changing the dead battery in the automatic alcohol spray machine, I accidentally splashed some residual alcohol from the tube into my nasal cavity. I panicked and inhaled a bit through my nose, then switched to breathing through my mouth. ...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, based on your description, since alcohol evaporates quickly, it should not cause any significant effects, and there is likely no need for medical attention. Thank you for your inquiry.

Understanding the Risks of Industrial Alcohol Exposure in Labs

Hello Doctor, I am currently interning and trying to understand the products, so I followed a lab technician to conduct experiments. To clean the marker off the beaker, it is better to use 95% alcohol spray, as it washes off more easily. Since I haven't dealt with chemistry ...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, these chemicals or compounds do indeed have a pungent odor, and many can cause dizziness when inhaled. However, unless consumed in large quantities, they are unlikely to cause significant harm to the body. It is recommended to drink plenty of water and rest; this should he...

Can 75% Alcohol Hand Sanitizer Prevent STD Infection Risks?

Hello, Dr. Du. This morning, while exercising on the first floor of the hotel, I had a nosebleed. After pressing the elevator button with my finger, I returned to my room on the fourth floor. Once inside, I immediately used 75% alcohol hand sanitizer to clean my hands (including ...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Alcohol can kill bacteria, and syphilis is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, so there is no need for concern. Wishing you good health.