A plastic surgeon can hide the appearance of a collapsed septum, restore the nasal lining, and more. In drug addiction treatment the nose, these blood vessels may burst when the cocaine has worn off and blood vessels return to their usual size. Read on to better understand how cocaine abuse affects the nose. Repeated cocaine use can leave nasal tissue inflamed and fragile.

What Happens When Cocaine is Snorted?
Once the residual toxins of the drug have left the system, the addict must enter treatment. It is vital to investigate your options thoroughly and find a trustworthy rehab provider. Most health plans today cover treatment for drug rehabilitation; identify the facility that works best both with you and for you. And anyone can become addicted to cocaine at any stage of their life. However, the following factors can increase one’s chances of developing a cocaine addiction.
Diagnosing Coke Nose

Cocaine causes abrasion as it’s pulled through the lining of your https://vorab.me/2023/07/31/treatment-and-recovery-national-institute-on-drug-9/ nose, and, if you’re using something with rough edges to snort, it can also cause abrasion (more on this in a moment). After snorting, use a few pumps of the saline rinse to wash the lingering cocaine off your nasal mucosa. In addition to applying petroleum jelly to the edge of your nostril, there are a few other things you can do to soothe your nose and prevent irritation. When inhaled, petroleum jelly may lead to something called lipid pneumonia.
Signs of Addiction
- Cocaine unequivocally damages the nose, with consequences ranging from temporary irritation to severe, permanent structural collapse.
- Additionally, the drug can result in infections and complications such as sinus infections, nonallergic rhinitis, nasal sores, and loss of smell.
- Septal perforations may be visible on the nose and cause a deviated septum in severe cases.
Cocaine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, and it can contribute to dangerous cardiovascular events in some people. If you have chest pain or shortness of breath after cocaine use, seek emergency care. Consulting an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist can clarify whether the damage aligns with “coke nose” or another condition. For those worried about potential drug misuse, reputable addiction centers can provide discreet testing and support. Injuries such as saddle nose deformity may result after years of worsening septal perforation, leading to reduced nasal bridge support and eventual collapse.
- A person is said to have co-occurring disorders when they have the combination of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder (SUD), such as cocaine addiction.
- Repeated vasoconstriction can weaken tiny blood vessels over time.
- This drug is usually in the form of a white powder, which is snorted by users.
Dealing With Nasal Congestion

If you or a loved one are struggling with cocaine addiction, seeking help is essential before the long-term effects become https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/what-does-cocaine-do-to-your-nose/ detrimental. You can get help at our private residential facilities in Bournemouth. We provide free, confidential advice and discuss potential treatment options. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help today and take the first steps towards lasting recovery. The extent of recovery depends on how long the damage has been occurring. Minor irritation may heal with proper care, but extensive tissue damage may require medical intervention.
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