Can I Have a Small Hole in Septum and Will It Heal on Its Own?

Question

I have recently had really bad nasal congestion. I was put on Nasonex. This seemed to help a little however everytime I breathe in my nose makes a whistling noise. There does appear to be a scab inside on the septum and if I am rubbing ny nose it will dislogde and start to bleed. The Dr. said I did not have a hole in the septum. But I am wondering now if it might be a small enough hole she didnt notice?

William Portuese, MD · Answer

If the nose is whistling then you indeed may have a septal perforation. Septal perforations occur in different sizes depending on the cause. A small perforation is self-limiting, but will not heal on its own. Placing a silastic button over the hole can repair septal perforations.

Fereydoon S. Mahjouri, MD · Answer

You did not mentioned if you had any trauma or nasal syrgery. If your symtoms started following a blow to your nose or if you started to have crusting, bleeding and/or whistling after a nasal surgery, this may be due to having a relatively small hole in your nose which is detectable in a careful nasal examination. You may consider to request a re-examination with special attention to inspect the septum.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

With a thorough exam to look inside your nose a nasal perforation even small is detectable. I would suggest having another consultation and exam. Explain your symptoms and hopefully a proper diagnosis can be made. Best regards!

Can I Have a Small Hole in Septum and Will It Heal on Its Own?

Answers (3)