Am I Damaging My Nose from Substance Use?
At 20 years old, I have been habitually using various substances through my nose for the past year, yet I believed I hadn’t inflicted much harm. However, I've started to observe some concerning changes. When I breathe—especially during heavier exertion—it seems as if one side of my nose is collapsing inward. After an all-night outing at a club last weekend, I’ve experienced persistent nasal congestion, accompanied by discomfort and pressure in my sinuses, as well as an accumulation of mucus in my throat. Additionally, I’ve noticed some odd sensations in my nose, like a peculiar softness at the tip. Given these symptoms, I'm questioning whether these are indications of significant damage, signs that I should discontinue this behavior, or if a consultation with a healthcare professional would be wise.
Answers (1)
7/18/2025, 6:10:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about the changes you're experiencing in your nose, especially given your history of substance use. Your symptoms, including nasal congestion, discomfort, and the peculiar softness at the tip of your nose, can indicate issues that may result from damage to the nasal passages.
Explanation:
Using substances through the nose can lead to several complications, including irritation of the nasal lining, inflammation, or even changes to the structure of your nasal passages. The feeling of one side of your nose collapsing inward could be a sign of structural changes or damage. Persistently reporting congestion and discomfort, especially after a night of substance use, further supports the idea that your nasal health may be compromised.
Next Steps:
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Stop Use Immediately: The first and most crucial step is to discontinue using any substances through your nose. Continued use can lead to worsening damage to your nasal passages and other health issues.
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Hydrate and Humidify: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which can help your nasal passages heal. Using a humidifier in your living space can also alleviate congestion and discomfort.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms over the next week. If you notice worsening symptoms, such as increased pain, severe difficulty breathing, or any bleeding from your nose, these require urgent attention.
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Self-Care: Saline nasal sprays can help soothe irritation and keep your nasal passages moist. Avoid irritants like smoke or strong odors, as they can exacerbate your symptoms.
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Consider Professional Help: While it's essential to monitor your symptoms and take self-care steps, a consultation with a healthcare professional is highly recommended. They can assess any potential damage and guide you on recovery and avoiding future issues.
Taking these steps can help you address your current symptoms and protect your nasal health moving forward. Remember, your well-being is important, and seeking help is a positive step in the right direction.
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