Sores inside of the nose may occur as a result of irritated mucus membranes. A sore may be coated with petroleum jelly to relieve dryness. Picking or rubbing a sore in the nose will increase irritation and delay healing. In addition, disturbing the sore may initiate nosebleeds. This side effect often lasts for the first month or so of therapy, then goes away on its own.
Many people experience dry mouth soon after starting interferon therapy.
Sugar free hard candies and mints may help relieve dry mouth. Some people will notice increased gum bleeding during regular brushing. Interferon lowers the platelet count in almost everyone. Reduced platelet count can cause gums to bleed when irritated by brushing. Attending regular follow up appointments during treatment allows for monitoring of platelet and other blood cell counts.