Septal Perforation
An abnormal opening in the nasal septum (wall of tissue within the NOSE that divides the nostrils), that occurs as the result of chronic irritation, trauma, or cancer. Septal perforation may develop with long-term use of nasal oxygen, long-term use of corticosteroid nasal sprays (such as to treat ALLERGIC RHINITIS), inhalation of illicit drugs such as COCAINE or aerosols and glues, foreign objects in the nose, chronic digital trauma (picking the nose), or long-term exposure to chromates such as chromic acid and chromium (used in electroplating and other industrial applications). Septal perforation sometimes occurs as a consequence of RHINOPLASTY, particularly when there have been several operations.
Symptoms of septal perforation may include a whistling sound when BREATHING, nasal discharge, and bleeding (EPISTAXIS). The preferred treatment for most septal perforations is surgical repair (septoplasty), though it is sometimes necessary to first remedy the underlying cause. The doctor may place a nasal septal prosthesis, commonly called a nasal button, that fits into the perforation to create a temporary closure. Untreated septal perforation results in frequent infections and continued erosion of the nasal lining as well as CARTILAGE.
Symptoms of septal perforation may include a whistling sound when BREATHING, nasal discharge, and bleeding (EPISTAXIS). The preferred treatment for most septal perforations is surgical repair (septoplasty), though it is sometimes necessary to first remedy the underlying cause. The doctor may place a nasal septal prosthesis, commonly called a nasal button, that fits into the perforation to create a temporary closure. Untreated septal perforation results in frequent infections and continued erosion of the nasal lining as well as CARTILAGE.
Tags: abnormal opening, Cancer, chronic irritation, divides the nostrils, nasal septum, Septal Perforation, trauma, wall of tissue
Posted in Health and Wellness
