Deviated Nasal Septum

A deviated nasal septum might sound complicated, but it’s just a condition where the wall inside your nose that separates the nostrils isn’t straight. This article aims to simplify what it means to have a deviated septum, its types, causes, symptoms, tests, treatments, medications, surgeries, preventions, and when to see a doctor.

Imagine your nose like a house with two rooms (nostrils). The wall between these rooms is called the nasal septum. In some people, this wall isn’t straight; it’s crooked or shifted to one side. That’s a deviated nasal septum.

Types of Deviated Nasal Septum:

1. Bone and Cartilage Deviation: When both bone and cartilage are crooked.
2. Cartilage Deviation: Only the cartilage part of the septum is bent.
3. Bone Deviation: Only the bone part of the septum is bent.

Causes of Deviated Nasal Septum:

1. Birth Defects: Sometimes, people are born with a deviated septum.
2. Injury: A blow to the nose can cause the septum to move out of place.
3. Trauma during Birth: The process of birth itself can sometimes cause a deviated septum.
4. Growth Spurts: The nose grows during puberty, and this growth can sometimes cause deviation.
5. Chronic Nasal Congestion: Long-term stuffiness in the nose can lead to septum deviation.
6. Previous Nose Surgery: Surgery on the nose, especially if not done properly, can cause deviation.
7. Repeated Nose Blowing: Forceful blowing of the nose can sometimes lead to deviation.
8. Habitual Nose Picking: Constantly picking the nose can also contribute.
9. Certain Sports: Activities like boxing or rugby where the nose might get hit frequently.
10. Drug Abuse: Snorting drugs can damage the nasal septum over time.

Symptoms of Deviated Nasal Septum:

1. Nasal Congestion: One or both nostrils feel blocked.
2. Nosebleeds: Due to the dryness or irritation caused by the deviation.
3. Facial Pain or Headaches: Especially around the forehead or cheeks.
4. Noisy Breathing: You might notice wheezing or snoring.
5. Recurrent Sinus Infections: Because the drainage pathways are affected.
6. Postnasal Drip: Feeling mucus running down the back of your throat.
7. Sleep Apnea: Breathing pauses during sleep due to airway obstruction.
8. Snoring: Especially loud snoring that disrupts sleep.
9. Difficulty Smelling: Reduced sense of smell.
10. Facial Pressure: Feeling of heaviness or fullness in the face.

Diagnostic Tests for Deviated Nasal Septum:

1. Physical Examination: A doctor will look inside your nose using a lighted instrument.
2. Nasal Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the nose for a detailed view.
3. CT Scan: A type of X-ray that gives detailed images of the nose and sinuses.
4. MRI: Another imaging technique that shows soft tissues like the nasal septum.
5. Allergy Tests: To rule out allergies contributing to nasal symptoms.
6. Rhinoscopy: Using a rigid or flexible scope to examine the inside of the nose.
7. Nasal Septum Perforation Test: Checking for any holes in the septum.
8. Nasal Cytology: Collecting and analyzing cells from the nasal lining.
9. Smell Tests: Assessing the sense of smell, which can be affected by septal deviation.
10. Nasal Peak Inspiratory Flow: Measuring how well you can breathe through your nose.

Non-Pharmacological Treatments for Deviated Nasal Septum:

1. Nasal Irrigation: Flushing the nasal passages with saline solution.
2. Humidification: Using a humidifier to keep the air moist.
3. Nasal Strips: Adhesive strips placed on the nose to help open nasal passages.
4. Avoiding Allergens: If allergies are contributing, minimizing exposure to triggers.
5. Breathing Exercises: Techniques to improve nasal airflow.
6. Positional Changes: Sleeping with the head elevated can ease breathing.
7. Steam Inhalation: Breathing in steam from hot water can help relieve congestion.
8. Nasal Dilators: Devices inserted into the nostrils to keep them open.
9. Weight Loss: If obesity contributes to breathing problems.
10. Avoiding Irritants: Such as cigarette smoke or strong odors.

Medications for Deviated Nasal Septum:

1. Decongestants: Temporarily reduce nasal congestion.
2. Nasal Steroid Sprays: Decrease inflammation in the nasal passages.
3. Antihistamines: If allergies are a factor.
4. Nasal Anticholinergics: Reduce mucus production.
5. Nasal Atropine: To dry up nasal secretions.
6. Saline Nasal Sprays: Keep nasal passages moist.
7. Pain Relievers: For associated headaches or facial pain.
8. Antibiotics: If there’s a bacterial infection present.
9. Mucolytics: Help thin out mucus for easier drainage.
10. Oral Steroids: In severe cases of inflammation.

Surgeries for Deviated Nasal Septum:

1. Septoplasty: Surgery to straighten the nasal septum.
2. Rhinoplasty: Cosmetic surgery to reshape the nose.
3. Turbinate Reduction: Surgery to reduce the size of nasal turbinates that contribute to congestion.
4. Nasal Valve Repair: Fixing problems with the nasal valve that may worsen airflow.
5. Nasal Polyp Removal: If polyps are present and obstructing the nasal passages.
6. Balloon Sinuplasty: A less invasive procedure to open blocked sinuses.
7. Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: For severe cases of chronic sinusitis.
8. Septal Button Insertion: A device inserted into the nose to support the septum.
9. Cartilage Grafting: Using cartilage from elsewhere in the body to repair the septum.
10. Laser Surgery: To reshape or remove excess tissue in the nasal passages.

Preventions for Deviated Nasal Septum:

1. Protect Your Nose: Wear appropriate gear during sports or activities where nose injury is possible.
2. Manage Allergies: Minimize exposure to allergens and seek treatment if needed.
3. Avoid Nose Trauma: Be careful to prevent blows or injuries to the nose.
4. Practice Gentle Nose Care: Avoid forceful blowing or picking of the nose.
5. Maintain Proper Hygiene: Keep your nasal passages clean and moist.
6. Stay Healthy: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking.
7. Treat Infections Promptly: Seek medical help for any signs of nasal infection.
8. Use Nasal Moisturizers: Especially in dry or arid climates.
9. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep nasal secretions thin.
10. Regular Check-ups: Visit your doctor for routine nasal examinations, especially if you have symptoms.

When to See a Doctor:

If you experience persistent nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, difficulty breathing, or any other concerning symptoms related to your nose, it’s essential to see a doctor. Additionally, if you suspect you have a deviated nasal septum or if you’ve experienced trauma to your nose, seeking medical advice is important for proper diagnosis and management.

Conclusion:

Having a deviated nasal septum can be bothersome, but with the right understanding and treatment, many people find relief from their symptoms. By recognizing the signs, knowing the causes, and exploring treatment options, you can take steps towards better nasal health and improved quality of life. If you’re experiencing any nasal issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance and support.

 

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, previous medical  history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.

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