What is a perforated nasal septum?
The nose has two cavities separated by a septum. It is made of bone and cartilage and is responsible for separating the nasal cavities and channeling airflow into the nose. A perforated septum occurs when a hole is made in the septum, which, depending on the size of the hole, can cause mild or extreme symptoms.
View of a perforated nasal septum
Some people with a perforated nasal septum will not experience any symptoms, however, more severe perforations can lead to more severe and debilitating symptoms. With proper treatment, a perforated septum can be fixed.
Nasal perforation occurs when the cartilage of the septum deteriorates.
Symptoms of nasal septal perforation
The main characteristic of a perforated nasal septum is a hole in the septum that can vary in size (from less than 1 cm to more than 2 cm). Sometimes you may not be aware of a perforated nasal septum, especially if you have not experienced any symptoms.
Symptoms may include:
- Nose pain
- Headache
- Nosebleeds
- Wheezing when breathing through the nose
- Feeling as if the nose is blocked or stuffed up
- Scabies in the nose
Medical tests to diagnose a perforated nasal septum
If you suspect you may have a symptom of a perforated nasal septum, you should see your doctor. He or she will examine your nose and take a medical history. Certain tests to better examine the perforation are a nasal endoscopy or rhinoscopy.
What causes a perforated nasal septum?
There are numerous potential causes of a perforated nasal septum:
- Previous surgery of the nose
- Infection
- Trauma or injury
- Certain medicated sprays
- Drug use (e.g., cocaine)
- Exposure to industrial chemicals
Can a perforated nasal septum be prevented?
You can reduce your risk of getting a perforated nasal septum:
- Wearing protective equipment if you work in an industry with chemical exposure.
- Avoiding cocaine use.
- Avoid picking your nose.
Treatments for a perforated nasal septum
First, treatment will attempt to treat the underlying cause. There are several non-surgical measures that will also be used, including antibiotic cream, nasal irrigation with saline spray, and use of a home dehumidifier.
Your doctor may also recommend a prosthesis to block the hole in the septum. This may help reduce symptoms. In some cases, surgery will be needed to repair the hole. This is quite complex and will be performed under general anesthesia as tissue can be taken from the ears or ribs to fill the hole.
What type of specialist treats a perforated nasal septum?
An ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeon would treat a perforated nasal septum.