When snorted, cocaine irritates and damages the lining of the nose, and over time can lead to serious injuries, including perforated septum. But the nose is not the only organ affected. Cocaine is vasoconstrictor: it increases blood pressure and heart rate, and can cause heart attacks or strokes even in young people.
It can also affect the brain, causing seizures and problems with memory and attention. If you also smoke, lung damage can be significant. Beyond the psychological effects, cocaine carries serious physical risks, some visible and others that can be life-threatening.
