Damaged nasal septum

Overview

The septum can be damaged by cocaine, nose picking, nasal sprays, or surgery.

Small holes may cause no symptoms; larger ones whistle or crust.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Crusting, whistling, or nosebleeds
• Nose damage from snorting: nosebleeds, crusting, or a whistle

Less common

• Nose shape change

When to get medical care

Causes

Injury, cocaine.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

Nose exam.

Treatment

Protect the nose.

Self-care

• Saline spray
• Humidifier
• Stop cocaine
• Use saline spray

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Don't use cocaine
• Use nasal sprays as directed
• Wear face protection in sports

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an ENT doctor (ear, nose, and throat doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• People who used cocaine: Higher risk.
• Athletes: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Manageable.

Many manage symptoms well.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• Can it be repaired?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Damaged nasal septum