Hazards of using petroleum jelly in the nose

DEAR DR. GOTT: You recently wrote an article about why petroleum-based products aren’t supposed to be used in the nose. My doctor told me to use Vaseline to keep my nostrils moist to prevent nosebleeds because I live in a dry climate and am prone. What am I supposed to do?

DEAR READER: Since printing that article, I have received several requests for reprints and/or clarification, so here goes.

If used in the nostrils over a long period of time, petroleum-based products can cause a type of pneumonia or pneumonitis.
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Petroleum based products unsafe for some uses

DEAR DR. GOTT: I’m confused as to why some consumers should no longer use products that are petroleum based or contain parabens. Is it unsafe to use Vaseline, petroleum jelly or Bag Balm on dry, cracked feet?

DEAR READER: Because petroleum jelly is derived from oil, it must be refined. Some refining and production methods are said to have been shown to contain toxic, hazardous or carcinogenic components. Perhaps what you are referring to is the people that use Vaseline for different reasons, such as putting it inside the nose to keep the nostrils moistened. The product can run down the back of the nose and be swallowed, leading to lipoid pneumonia, especially if used over an extended period of time.
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