How Is a Deviated Septum Treated?

A deviated septum develops when the thin wall structure of cartilage and bone that separates your nostrils shifts to one side, making breathing problematic. This condition might arise spontaneously or develop gradually, frequently caused by trauma or injury. While some people might not notice any symptoms, others can experience substantial discomfort.

In this article, we’ll go over the signs of a deviated septum and the effective treatments available to strengthen your breathing and total quality of life.

Indications You Might Have a Deviated Septum

A deviated septum is often present without being noticed. As a matter of fact, an estimated 80% of adults have some amount of septal misalignment. In severe cases, the deviation can obstruct airflow and trigger additional complications.

Common symptoms of a deviated septum to watch for:

• Relentless Nasal Obstruction: You may experience a constant feeling of one nostril being blocked, especially when in a reclined position.
• Nasal Breathing Troubles: Respiratory difficulties through the nose can increase with exercise or during nighttime hours.
• Frequent Sinus Infections: A misaligned septum can stop mucus from draining effectively, resulting in persisting sinus infections.
• Headaches and Facial Pain: Persistent sinus blockage frequently results in pain and pressure in the forehead, cheeks, and nose.
• Snoring or Sleep Apnea: Difficulty breathing through the nose may lead to snoring or exacerbate conditions like sleep apnea.

If you notice any of these signs, it is imperative to seek guidance from an ear, nose, and throat specialist to explore potential treatment options.

How a Deviated Septum Influences Your Health

An untreated deviated septum can result in complications that extend far beyond respiratory problems.

Potential enduring health issues could include:

• Poor Sleep Quality: Persistent nasal blockage can disrupt your sleep, resulting in fatigue and decreased cognitive function during the day.
• Escalated Danger of Sinus Infections: Without proper airflow, mucus may become trapped, resulting in recurrent sinus infections and discomfort.
• Allergies and Asthma: A deviated septum can inhibit airflow, triggering increased respiratory distress and intensifying symptoms of allergies or asthma. Repairing a deviated septum can relieve these problems, producing improved overall wellness.

Managing a Deviated Septum: Solutions for Relief

Luckily, there are various treatment options accessible, which vary depending on how serious your symptoms are.

In instances where the condition is not severe, treatments that don’t involve surgery can often be enough to relieve symptoms and strengthen breathing:

• Treatments Involving Medication: Over-The-Counter antihistamines, nasal decongestants, and steroid sprays can be utilized to reduce swelling and clear clogged nasal passages.
• Nasal Flushing: Using a salt water rinse to clear out your nasal cavities mucus, alleviate stuffiness, and offer short-term comfort.
• Humidifiers: The use of a humidifier at home can help avoid the drying of your nasal passages, potentially lessening irritation and congestion. Even though these approaches are effective in symptom management, they do not address the root cause of a deviated septum.

When symptoms continue to affect your daily life and general well-being, surgery may become a feasible consideration.

Corrective Surgery: Septoplasty for Permanent Symptom Relief

For people whose symptoms are not alleviated by medications or lifestyle changes, septoplasty may be recommended. This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that reshapes or removes portions of the septum to improve airflow.

The surgery is typically carried out on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia and typically takes about an hour to accomplish. Most patients experience considerable relief from symptoms including nasal congestion, sinus infections, and trouble breathing following the surgery. Patients typically recuperate quickly, with most individuals resuming their usual activities in only a few days.

Knowing When to Seek Advice From an Ear, Nose, and Throat Doctor

If you are experiencing persistent nasal blockages, breathing difficulties, or recurring sinus problems, this may indicate a deviated septum. If these symptoms are affecting your daily life, consider making an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for a professional assessment and guidance. A specialist will evaluate your condition and examine the best possible courses of treatment tailored to your needs, considering both conservative strategies and surgical solutions.