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Nose damage from snorting: nosebleeds, crusting, or a whistle

Also called: Nasal septum damage, septal perforation

Nosebleeds, crusting, or a whistling sound when breathing through the nose can be signs of damage from snorting drugs like cocaine. It can cause a hole in the wall between the nostrils. Stopping use helps the nose heal, and help is available at 1-800-662-4357.

Common causesSnorting cocaine or other drugs
Usually serious?Can be
Get checked ifOngoing nose symptoms
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

Snorting drugs damages the lining and blood supply of the nose.

A hole in the septum can cause whistling, crusting, and nose shape changes.

When to get medical care

Call 911Chest pain, seizures, or very high temperature after using.
Get care todayNosebleed that won't stop.
See a doctor soonCrusting, whistling, or nose shape changes.

Causes

Causes include cocaine and other snorted drugs, nasal sprays, and some diseases.

OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause nose damage from snorting: nosebleeds, crusting, or a whistle. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • Damaged nasal septumSee a doctor if it doesn't get better

    A hole or damage in the wall between the nostrils, causing crusting, nosebleeds, a whistling sound when breathing, or a collapsing nose.

What you can do at home

  • Stop snorting.
  • Use saline spray.

Medicines

Treatment for substance use helps. Surgery can repair some damage.

At the doctor

The provider will look inside the nose.

Questions you may be asked

  • Drug use

The exam

A nose exam.

Tests

  • Scope exam

Prevention

Avoid use.

  • Get help for substance use

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

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Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.