Have you heard the term “coke nose” but aren’t quite sure what it means? A “coke nose” refers to the physical damage and deformity that can occur to the nose after prolonged cocaine use. Snorting cocaine can eat away at the delicate tissues in the nose, leading to a range of unpleasant and dangerous symptoms.
As a highly addictive stimulant drug, cocaine creates a powerful high by flooding the brain with dopamine. Users often snort the white powder through the nose, which allows it to be rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream via the nasal tissues. With repeated use, this can inflame and erode the nose’s inner lining.
Signs of Coke Nose
The most common signs and symptoms of a coke nose include:
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Loss of smell
- Chronic runny nose
- Whistling sound while breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chronic nasal infections
- Saddle nose deformity (collapsed bridge of the nose)
- Septal perforation (a hole inside the nose)
Risks
If left untreated, a coke nose can lead to serious health complications. The damaged nasal tissues provide an easy pathway for bacteria and infections. A severely perforated septum can even cause the nose to completely collapse, requiring reconstructive surgery to rebuild nasal passages.
In addition to causing permanent damage to nasal structures, cocaine wreaks havoc throughout the body. It increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, seizures, sexual dysfunction, and severe mental health disorders. Snorting large amounts of cocaine can lead to overdose and sudden death.
The good news is that a coke nose and cocaine addiction are treatable conditions. The first step is to stop using cocaine to allow damaged tissues to start healing. Treatment should address both the physical and psychological aspects of cocaine dependence.
Get Help Today
At Texas Recovery Centers, we provide comprehensive care for individuals struggling with cocaine addiction. Our experienced medical team can help manage uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, treat infections and injuries to the nose, and begin to restore overall health. Behavioral therapies and counseling help clients understand their addiction, modify drug-seeking behaviors, and learn healthier coping skills for lasting recovery.
If you or a loved one are battling a cocaine problem, don’t wait until it’s too late. Texas Recovery Centers is here to help you break free from addiction and rebuild a healthy, drug-free life. Call us today at 888-354-2194 to learn more about our cocaine addiction treatment programs. Your journey to recovery starts here.
