hole in septum getting bigger

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10-10-2024

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A Hole in My Septum: Should I Be Worried?

A hole in your septum, the wall between your nostrils, can be a cause for concern. While small holes may be harmless, a growing hole can lead to various problems, including breathing difficulties, frequent nosebleeds, and even whistling sounds during breathing.

What causes a hole in the septum to get bigger?

According to a study published in "The Laryngoscope" by authors K.M. Kim, J.Y. Kim, and Y.J. Kim, "Septal perforation is a common finding in the nose. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, surgery, infection, and drug use." (Kim et al., 2011)

Trauma: Injuries to the nose, either from accidents or forceful nose-blowing, can lead to a hole in the septum.

Surgery: Septoplasty, a procedure to correct a deviated septum, can sometimes result in a perforated septum.

Infection: Chronic infections like syphilis and tuberculosis can damage the nasal septum, leading to perforations.

Drug Use: Cocaine use is a common cause of septal perforations, often leading to larger holes over time.

What are the signs of a growing septal perforation?

• Difficulty Breathing: A hole in the septum can disrupt airflow, making it harder to breathe through the nose.
• Nosebleeds: The septum is rich in blood vessels, and a perforation can increase the risk of frequent nosebleeds.
• Whistling Sounds: Air passing through the hole can create whistling sounds during breathing, especially when inhaling.
• Dryness and Crusting: The nasal lining in the area of the hole can become dry and prone to crusting.

Should I be concerned about a growing hole in my septum?

It's essential to see a doctor if you notice any of the above symptoms. A growing hole in the septum can have various complications.

• Increased Risk of Infections: A hole in the septum can make the nasal cavity more susceptible to infections.
• Difficulty with Speech: Large holes can affect nasal resonance, leading to changes in speech patterns.
• Cosmetic Concerns: A large septal perforation can cause visible nasal deformities.

What are the treatment options for a growing septal perforation?

The treatment for a growing septal perforation will depend on the size and cause of the hole.

• Observation: Small holes may not require treatment, and a doctor might simply monitor their progress.
• Medications: Nasal sprays and ointments can help manage symptoms like dryness and crusting.
• Surgery: For larger holes, surgery may be needed to close the perforation and restore normal nasal function.

Remember, self-treating a growing hole in your septum is not advisable. Consult a healthcare professional to discuss the best treatment plan for your specific situation.

Further Resources:

• American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery: https://www.entnet.org/
• American Rhinologic Society: https://www.rhinology.org/

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for any health concerns.

References:

Kim, K. M., Kim, J. Y., & Kim, Y. J. (2011). Septal perforation: a review of the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment. The Laryngoscope, 121(7), 1402-1408. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3152229/