What to Do About Hole in Nasal Septum?

Question

I have a hole in my nasal septum that I can just about put my pinky finger through. It has been there for about two years now, and it doesn't cause me any pain or any breathing problems. Most of the time I forget it's even there. However, I am a little worried about it since it's a hole that shouldn't be there. Should I look into getting it repaired or just leave it alone?

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

If the septal perforation will is causing no functional abnormality it is best to leave it alone.

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Hello,

	Thank you for the question.  It sounds like you have a septal perforation.  The lining of the septum has likely healed since then so the cartilage probably not exposed.  A septal perforation can be a problem if nasal whistling occurs while breathing through the nose, if the shape of the nose changes, or it is close to the front a visible.  If these are not the case you can safely consider leaving it alone.  The use of Cocaine is a common source of septal perforations.  If this has been the source of the perforation for you I would refrain from further use as the problem can worse.

	All the best,

	Dr. Remus Repta

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