What Does Cocaine Do to Your Nose?

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug that is recreationally used for its euphoric effects. However, while it might offer immediate pleasurable sensations, few users are aware of the serious damage that can be caused to the nasal passages, especially when the drug is snorted.

In this article, we’ll be looking into the various methods of cocaine use, the long-term and immediate effects it can have on the nose and explore whether there is the potential to reverse any damage.

How is Cocaine Used?

Cocaine is used in many ways, and each carries its own set of risks and potential health implications.

Snorting is the most common method. This is where powdered cocaine is inhaled through the nose, leading to direct contact of the drug and the tissues within the nasal passage lining. The cocaine is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream through mucous membranes, resulting in a quick and often intense effect.

Cocaine can also be inhaled via smoking. This type of cocaine is commonly referred to as crack and is a vaporised version of the drug. It quickly passes from the lungs into the bloodstream, again leading to intense and rapid effects.

Finally, cocaine can also be injected into the bloodstream using a needle. Again, this can result in quick effects but also increases the risk of serious and infectious diseases.

Immediate Effects of Snorting Cocaine on the Nose

When someone snorts cocaine, they are exposing their delicate nasal tissues to the harsh properties of the substance, which can result in several immediate effects. Cocaine is a potent vasoconstrictor, which means it narrows blood vessels and reduces blood flow. Because of this, users commonly experience a burning sensation in the nose after snorting. Reduced blood flow can also result in inflammation and swelling, which can cause discomfort and pain.

In a bid to protect and heal the irritated tissues within the nasal passage, the body will create excess mucus. This is why some users experience a runny nose. The swollen tissues can also obstruct airflow in the nose, making it difficult to breathe and leading to frequent congestion.

Extensive and prolonged use of cocaine can also damage the olfactory receptors. These are responsible for the sense of smell so it’s not uncommon for cocaine users to suffer from hyposmia or anosmia – a reduced ability to smell or a complete loss of smell – which can significantly impact the overall quality of life.

What Does Cocaine Do to Your Nose?

Over time, the nose can be at risk of progressive and severe damage, which can affect the nasal structure. Exposure to cocaine’s vasoconstrictive effect can cause erosion of the membranes and ulceration. This is because regular reduction in blood flow results in the mucous membranes deteriorating, leading to dryness and irritation. Open sores can develop, and users may be at risk of more infection.

Many users also report frequent nosebleeds. This is because cocaine weakens the blood vessels and thins the nasal lining. These nose bleeds can vary in severity but can be severe and require medical attention. Dried blood and mucus can also form hard crusts, which can be very painful and create blockages. Finally, as the nose tissue breaks down, the septum, which is the cartilage that divides the nostrils, can develop holes. This can result in a condition known as septal perforation.

Cocaine Nose Damage: What Happens When the Septum Is Destroyed?

Septal perforation is also known as cocaine nose. It is caused by severe and prolonged use of cocaine which ultimately results in structural damage. Those who snort cocaine are at the biggest risk of septal perforation as it is caused by chronic vasoconstriction and tissue erosion, which lead to a hole developing in the nasal septum. Small perforations can also get bigger with time, leading to serious damage and complications.

Some of the most common symptoms of septal perforation include a whistling sound when breathing, frequent nose infections and a complete nasal collapse. One of the most severe side effects of septal destruction is known as saddle nose deformity. This is where the bridge of the nose completely collapses. Aside from cosmetic challenges, it can also impact breathing and cause immense psychological distress.

Can Cocaine Damage to the Nose Be Reversed?

The potential to reverse nasal damage from cocaine depends on how severe the injury is and how quickly intervention has happened. Stopping cocaine use quickly can prevent any further damage and allows the body to heal naturally. During this period, minor irritation and inflammation may improve. However, some conditions require medical intervention.

Some of the most common treatments include saline rinses to keep the nasal passage moist and clean. Individuals may also be prescribed topical medication to treat infection and reduce inflammation. A humidifier can also be a handy investment to add moisture to the air and prevent dryness in the nose.

In cases where the nose has been severely damaged and there are structural deformities, reconstructive surgery may be required. Silicone devices called septal buttons can be inserted to close perforations and help with symptoms. However, surgery is often only used when an individual has ceased their cocaine use.

The Link Between Cocaine Use & Sinus Problems

Damage from cocaine use isn’t just limited to the nasal passage, as it can also extend to the sinus cavities. This is because damage to the nose lining can obstruct sinus drainage and result in frequent sinus infections leading to facial pain, pressure and nasal discharge. The erosion of nose tissues can also impact normal mucus flow, again leading to congestion and increasing the risk of sinusitis.

Getting Help for Cocaine Addiction and Nasal Damage

In order to recover from nasal damage and cocaine use, it’s important to address both the addiction and physical consequences. Stopping usage is key to preventing any further and irreversible damage. The sooner an individual seeks help, the better chances they have at recovery.

Our team at Addiction Advocates provide a free and confidential service that helps people find comprehensive treatment programmes, including detox, rehabilitation and therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction. So, if you’re worried about your health or a loved one, get in touch today. Ceasing cocaine use will not only stop further nose damage but enhance your overall physical and mental health – and the first step has never been closer.