Effects of psychoactive substances on otorhinolaryngologic system

Abstract

Substance abuse is the most common group of diseases. Many studies indicate the wide distribution in the general population, which in some areas has epidemic proportions. They often have health, family, professional and social consequences. Especially significant is damage of otorhinolaryngological region, due to specific way of intake. The authors cite studies that indicate harmful effects of some psychoactive substances on the auditory and vestibular apparatus, the nose and paranasal sinuses, oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and other organs of head and neck region. Authors described morphological and structural changes in this region and presented extreme consequences of the mucous membrane, blood vessels and bone, as well as effects of substances on teeth and gingivas.

Keywords

• substance abuse
• otorhinolaryngologic disease