The nasal septum is the structure between the nostrils that separates the nasal passages. The septum, composed of cartilage and thin bone, can develop a hole (perforation) in the cartilage as a complication of previous nasal surgery, from drug use, excessive nose picking, trauma, cancer, or diseases such as tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, or syphilis. As damage reduces blood supply in the septum, the cartilage begins to die, and a hole develops.
Symptoms
Symptoms
Some perforations can cause:
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Whistling sound when inhaling
If dried blood or scabs build up, you could also have trouble breathing through your nose.
Treatment
Infographic
