While there are many forms of treatment for a deviated septum, surgery may be an option to correct it. When do you know if you need surgery? What alternatives are there?
What Is a Deviated Septum?
The septum is a piece of cartilage inside the nose that separates the left and the right nostril. For most people, the septum evenly divides the nostrils and runs through the center of the nose; however, some people are born with an uneven septum that makes one nostril larger than the other. This is a deviated septum. You can be born with a deviated septum, or it can happen as a result of an injury.
What Are the Symptoms of a Deviated Septum?
Depending on the deviation and the severity of the damage, you may experience relatively few symptoms. However, some people experience nasal obstruction, which can result in noisy breathing to snoring. You may experience nosebleeds or have a lot of nasal drainage. Some people get a stuffy feeling in one nostril. In the worst cases, patients will experience facial pain, too.
Treating a Deviated Septum
There are several options for treating a deviated septum. The biggest goal is to manage the symptoms effectively so that they don’t impact your quality of life. You may need to use a nasal spray like Ayr or Ocean to keep the nasal passages comfortable, and sprays like Afrin can help minimize inflammation. You may also need to take decongestants and antihistamines to reduce swelling and limit congestion and drainage.
Surgery for a Deviated Septum
Whether your deviated septum is a result of an injury or congenital birth defect, they sometimes require surgical repair. During the surgery, doctors reposition the septum to the center of the nose. This sometimes requires removing parts of the septum in order to realign symmetrically.
If you are suffering from a deviated septum, the first step towards feeling better is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified physicians with New York ENT have extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of nasal conditions. Fill out the form on this page or call our office at 212-873-6036 to schedule an appointment today.
