Nasal septum perforation

curiousas250

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Aug 13, 2018
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As a kid I used to pick my nose pretty often but grew out of that habit as I matured. During DoDMERB I didn’t disclose any history of issues with my nose so I never had any, or ever saw the doctor for any of these issues as well. As a result I was medically cleared quite quickly.

Unfortunately, some days ago I accidentally discovered a septum perforation inside my nose. It’s somewhat sizable, roughly 1-1.5cm, but asymptotic to the point that chances are I’ve had it for years without noticing the slightest thing off about my breathing; I don’t even the typical whistling whistling sound when I breathe in and out, so unless you shine a flashlight up there it’s impossible to tell.

According to a pdf I found on the DoDMERB regulations, only a symptomatic nasal perforation is disqualifying, but another online source disagrees and says that even if a nasal perforation is asymptotic, it is still considered a unwaiverable disqualification. Because of this, I am now considering surgery to fix the perforation, but am somewhat uncertain because I still experience no issues with my nose and don’t want to put that at risk. Chances also are that surgery wouldn’t be covered by insurance since it’s asymptotic, so it’s a money issue as well.

How should I correct this issue, and what is the right choice for me in this scenario?
 
Part of me says the standard “don’t self diagnose”. Which I kind of feel like this falls into that category.

How did you accidentally discover it? Don’t need an answer, but wondering if it’s more than you think and actually is problematic? Alternatively, if you still have the habit that caused you to discover it? Again, no answer needed but either of those could be issues that need actual medical attention. So answering those would determine my personal advice (only as a mom, not admissions or a medical person).

In general, I am a “if it isnt broke, don’t fix it” kind of person. And if this IS a non-waiverable thing, there is a good reason. Additionally, however you proceed, you may be required to “wait a year” so be prepared for that. It’s not a bad thing.

Curious, so let us know! And best wishes.
 
Part of me says the standard “don’t self diagnose”. Which I kind of feel like this falls into that category.

How did you accidentally discover it? Don’t need an answer, but wondering if it’s more than you think and actually is problematic? Alternatively, if you still have the habit that caused you to discover it? Again, no answer needed but either of those could be issues that need actual medical attention. So answering those would determine my personal advice (only as a mom, not admissions or a medical person).

In general, I am a “if it isnt broke, don’t fix it” kind of person. And if this IS a non-waiverable thing, there is a good reason. Additionally, however you proceed, you may be required to “wait a year” so be prepared for that. It’s not a bad thing.

Curious, so let us know! And best wishes.

I discovered it while trying to remove something that had accidentally lodged up my nose (Long story), and confirmed it by shining a flashlight up there; the perforation definitely exists. Whatever the case, I've checked the online DoDMERB regulation from 2018, which only states "g. Current symptomatic perforation of nasal septum (5.7.G)", but a older regulation from 2005 simply states "(9) Current perforation of nasal septum (478.1) is disqualifying.", so I'm confused as to whether or not I should report it, or if the regulation had changed and what once would've disqualified me is a non-issue now.

I've checked the regulations again and it becomes a non-issue if you have surgery to close the perforation, but yet again, surgery would be expensive, risky, and unlikely to be covered due to the fact it is extremely asymptotic.
 
Gosh I’m at a loss actually. Hopefully someone will have some advice for you. Wish I could be more helpful but I’m really not sure. I doubt anyone is going to look up your nose on subsequent medical evaluations. And if it’s not a problem, it’s not a problem. And you are not a doctor who has medically diagnosed it. So I’m thinking I would lean towards leaving everything as is as my advice. As it sounds like you are not seeking medical attention because of any symptoms.

I personally would not have a surgery only to hopefully increase my odds of receiving an appointment. Rather I personally would cross that bridge when/if it comes. Meaning, if ultimately I needed surgery, I would get it and be prepared to perhaps have to reapply the following year.

Have you talked to you parents about this?
 
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