Cocaine Nose: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment

It’s not just about treating the addiction but also about caring for your overall well-being. Individuals may also experience a chronic clear or discolored nasal discharge, along with a persistent feeling of dryness, burning, or irritation inside the nose. As the damage advances, the delicate lining of the septum can develop inflammation and ulcerations (small sores). Cocaine comes in various forms, each with its unique risks and effects on the user. While the traditional powdered form of cocaine is What does cocaine do to your nose widely recognized, other variants like “crack” cocaine and “pink cocaine” are also prevalent. Pink cocaine, a designer drug that can vary in composition, is often mistakenly perceived as less harmful due to its name and appearance.

cocaine nose

Deviated Septum From Cocaine

Board-eligible in Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Addiction Medicine, Dr. Scott has over a decade of experience in behavioral health. He leads medical teams with a focus on excellence in care and has authored several publications on addiction and mental health. Deeply committed to his patients’ long-term recovery, Dr. Scott continues to advance the field through research, education, and advocacy. Cocaine nose bleeds can be difficult to stop because the tissue doesn’t heal and clot as quickly as undamaged tissue.

FAQs About Cocaine Nose

  • Over time, this can cause the tissues to die and damage to occur to the septum and surrounding tissues.
  • Aside from cosmetic challenges, it can also impact breathing and cause immense psychological distress.
  • Also, the act of sucking the powder into your nose means pulling small crystals across your nasal mucosa.
  • These infections can be more severe and persistent than typical sinus infections, requiring antibiotic treatment or surgical drainage in severe cases.
  • Depending on how much damage emerges, you may not be able to get your sense of smell back.

What may start as a euphoric dopamine rush can often become an addiction. The terms we’ve used today such as “cocaine face”, “coke nose”, or “saddle nose” describe only some of the consequences from long-term cocaine usage. From chronic nosebleeds, congestion, or nose collapse, can be irreversible and can deeply impact the quality of life. If you or someone you love or know is struggling with cocaine addiction, it is never too late to seek help. Early intervention and correct treatment can help prevent permanent damage and begin the journey to recovery. Over time, reduced blood flow may destroy parts of the septum, creating permanent holes.

Can I Recover From Cocaine Addiction Without Professional Help?

cocaine nose

Understanding why people snort cocaine is crucial for addressing the root causes of addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with cocaine use, seek help immediately. The dangers are real, but recovery is possible with the right support and treatment. Addressing cocaine-induced septal damage often involves a multi-faceted non-surgical approach to alleviate symptoms. Regular saline nasal rinses are Substance abuse commonly recommended to help clear crusts and moisturize the nasal passages, reducing irritation.

  • Surgery is often required to reconstruct the nasal structure and restore its appearance and function.
  • Board-eligible in Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Addiction Medicine, Dr. Scott has over a decade of experience in behavioral health.
  • In more serious cases, long-term cocaine use can cause physical changes like a perforated septum and a saddle nose deformity.
  • The cocaine is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream through mucous membranes, resulting in a quick and often intense effect.
  • Uncontrolled bleeding risks include anemia, infection, and a heightened likelihood of septal perforation.
  • At Sparkle Recovery, our compassionate team is committed to providing the care, tools, and support you need to take confident steps toward lasting recovery and hope.

If you’re ready to be free from addiction, contact FHE today to learn more about our treatment programs and the personalized support we offer. Even https://www.innovative-bd.com/2023/05/18/how-to-help-an-alcoholic-dealing-with-someone-s/ in small amounts, cocaine use can cause severe damage to the nose. Snorting cocaine also increases the risk of chronic sinus infections that resist treatment. This is due to the impact the drug has on blood circulation, impairing the body’s ability to fight off bacteria and other contaminants. These infections can be more severe and persistent than typical sinus infections, requiring antibiotic treatment or surgical drainage in severe cases. Life-threatening conditions such as sepsis or brain abscesses can occur when infections like this spread beyond the sinuses.

cocaine nose

By receiving this treatment, you eliminate the risk of experiencing further damage from cocaine abuse. The drug constricts blood vessels and reduces blood supply to the nasal passages. With repeated use, this diminished blood flow deprives the nasal passages of oxygen and essential nutrients.

Get Help for Cocaine Addiction

Our goal is to not only treat cocaine nose but also to empower individuals to achieve long-term recovery and improved quality of life. For those whose nasal damage requires surgical repair, options such as septoplasty and rhinoplasty may be considered. These procedures help restore both the structure and function of the nasal passages.