I knew an old guy who would take the vicks vapo rub and put it straight up into his nostrils as far as he could get it. What a rush!
Even though many people do this, it is potentially hazardous. You are very vulnerable in this state. If something goes haywire, you could be burned for years and the first few days would be very disturbing. Your sinuses drain to the throat, which is connected to the mouth and esophagus. So, a dramatic, semi-permanent burn all around your nostrils, sinuses, mouth and throat could occur in the following circumstances:
If you are maced or even rinse stickiness off your pocket mace canister in warm water, because droplets will become airborne.
If there is a chemical attack
If your roommate starts cleaning with too much ammonia and/or bleach and forgets to open the windows.
Also, if there is even a tiny bit of residual mace on your face or hands, it will spread the burn little by little as you touch yourself while blowing your nose or examining your mouth/throat.
The antidote to this is sour cream. Up the nose and in the mouth. For three days.
