• Could I get meningitis?

I'm kind of a hypochondriac but I got a nosebleed from picking my nose. Could I get meningitis due to bacteria reaching my brain from my nose?

5 Answers

  • Ear-Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT)
  • Larkspur, California

Unlikely unless you are immune compromised

  • Family Practitioner
  • Houston, TX

It kind of depends on how far you stick your finger in your nose. Theoretically, if you go far enough and punctured the cribiform plate, you could give yourself meningitis. But I've never heard that happening. Nonetheless, it's not a good idea to pick your nose.

William Z. Cohen, M.D., FAAFP

  • Family Practitioner
  • Harrogate, TN

Most likely not- it would be highly highly unusual for this to occur

  • Family Practitioner
  • Lancaster, OH

You could get meningitis from viruses and bacteria, but not likely from picking your nose.

  • Family Practitioner

Good Morning,
While that’s not impossible it’s highly unlikely. Better nasal hygiene is to flush your nose once or twice daily with one of the many over-the-counter nasal saline products. This will dramatically reduce your urge to “pick” your nose.
Best,

P. Gunnar Brolinson, DO

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