Does cocaine abuse cause nasal deviation?

Question

Hi doctor,

I recently got a septoplasty and my doctor said that I had a deviated septum. The reason for my blockage and congestion was my septum, which was messed up and misaligned. I did, however abuse cocaine four years ago and felt that I caused some erosion. Ever since then my sinus infections increased. I was also experiencing blockage and breathing issues, which was worsening over time. My doctor said that my septum problem was either congenital or I got hit with something. I am wondering if I actually realigned my septum due to my insufflations of cocaine or my condition was worsening over time. Does cocaine place the nose off center? Will it cause breathing issues? Please explain.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Cocaine does not cause deviation or realignment of the septum, but it can cause septal perforation. You will get the feeling of nose block even though it is not and also mucociliary disturbances that is secretions get accumulated in the nose and because of which patient complains of nasal blockage. It can also cause blockage of the sinuses and sinusitis. Deviation of cartilage can be due to some trauma or can be birth defect.