As disgusting as this may sound, the mucous in your nasal passage is easily accessible. In other words, this clear slime can easily absorb a variety of substances and instantly transport dangerous toxins into the bloodstream. (After all, our nasal passageways are one of the first lines of defense against pollen, smoke, and other antagonists.) So, as you can imagine, drugs tend to complicate this delicate process after a while, one of the best examples being cocaine addiction and the ensuing bloody nose. Rather than passing directly into the stomach, liver, and small intestine, drugs that are commonly snorted will bypass safeguards and enter the bloodstream. Let’s take a closer look at how drug abuse and addiction can affect the nose.
Snort That Stuff
Scattered throughout areas of the body (nose, mouth, trachea, eyelids, stomach, lungs, rectum, and more), mucous membranes contain a network of epithelial cells that are interlinked with soft tissues. Overall, these epithelial cells are pretty tough and are able to withstand endless abrasions. Most importantly, however, they contain highly sensitive cells that are built for absorption.
Typically, legal intranasal drugs are dispersed in a liquid base, but a variety of illegal drugs (in great contrast) are only offered in a gritty powder form. On one hand, cocaine is snorted a white sandy mixture, while drug addicts will crush opioids for snorting. So, why do people take drugs in this manner? Simply put, they will experience a stronger high, and the symptoms will set in much quicker than if the drugs were swallowed.
You’ll Wish for Nosebleeds
Ultimately, your little nose can only take so much abuse. Typically, short-term effects can mimic problems like lung infections or a runny nose. On the other hand, long-term problems are much more horrific and can result in permanent nasal damage:
- Ischemia (loss of blood supply)
- Inflammation
- Micronecrosis and granuloma (large, calloused bumps)
- Holes in the nasal septum (the connecting tissue between the two passages)
- Holes in the palate (roof of the mouth)
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse or Addiction
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
