What is safe to put up your nose from an ENTs perspective?
We often use our noses for different kinds of medication including decongestant sprays, allergy sprays and steroid nasal sprays to name a few.
This is because the nose, specifically the nasal mucosa, has been found to be rapidly absorbing making them convenient and fast-acting. Not only this but it also helps us to avoid the systemic side effects which occur when we take medications in pill form.
But what is ok to inhale and what can cause damage to our nasal passages?
As an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist based in London, I was recently quoted in an article in Vice about the health risks of inhaling dangerous substances. While the article highlights the potential dangers, I felt compelled to offer a more in-depth perspective to truly inform readers.
As an ENT specialist, I've treated cases of injuries stemming from these dangerous pranks. Snorting anything which has not been prescribed to you or recommended by a doctor is not a good idea. There are many potential risks involved.
Why snorting anything that you have not been suggested to by a doctor is dangerous?
Our noses are designed for filtering air, not foreign objects. The delicate membranes lining the nasal cavity are easily irritated and damaged. Inhaling different substances can cause:
Inflammation: This can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
Bleeding: Disrupting the blood vessels in the nose can cause nosebleeds, sometimes severe.
Infection: Snorting introduces foreign particles that can harbour bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.
Serious Complications: Inhaling certain substances can lead to lung infections, pneumonia, and sometimes even permanent lung damage. In addition, some substances, like asbestos which we touch on in the article, are carcinogenic (cancer-causing) and can have long-term health consequences.
The Bottom Line.
Snorting different substances can cause a range of problems, from mild irritation to serious health complications.
You can read more in my article in Vice.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. Please consult a medical professional for any questions or concerns you may have.
