So, what is a septum? A normal septum is a piece of cartilage separating the two nostrils. It usually sits in the center and divides the two nostrils equally. For some people, this septum or wall is uneven, and they present with one nostril larger than the other.
The severity of this unevenness of the septum is what we call a deviated septum that presents with many health complications, including difficulty in breathing.
According to the American Academy of otolaryngology, almost 80% of septums somewhat deviate. Surgical intervention for correction is indicated when it poses serious health concerns and affects your quality of life.
What Are The Causes Of A Deviated Septum?
Often, a deviated septum is congenital, meaning that the affected person is born with it. The deviation can also occur because of a nasal fracture or an injury to the nose, playing sports, fighting, or during an accident; a deviated septum that doesn’t get treatment timely also tends to worsen with age.
What Are The Most Common Symptoms Of A Deviated Septum?
Minor deviations don’t present serious symptoms. However, they can still be observed:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose due to blockage of the nose. You may notice this more during flu and allergy season, which can cause the nasal passages to further swell and become narrow.
- Occasional nosebleeds because of dryness
- Sinus infection
- Facial pain may be caused due to inflamed sinuses adding pressure or the deviated nostril adding further pressure.
- Being able to breathe easily through one side of the nose
- Dryness of the nostrils
- Nasal congestion or pressure buildup
- Snoring or heavy breathing during sleeping
- Preference to sleep on a particular side may be an indication of nasal blockage since people tend to favour the side that allows them to breathe better.
When it comes to severe deviation, it is almost always accompanied by facial pain. If you have frequent nose bleeds, dryness, and sinus infections, you should see your doctor immediately.
How To Diagnose A Deviated Septum?
In order to diagnose a deviated septum, your doctor will examine your nasal speculum and your nostrils. The doctor checks the placement of the speculum and assesses how it impacts the size of the nostril.
The doctor will also take a brief history of your sleep pattern, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, sinus issues, and snoring to complete the examination.
A good ENT specialist would be able to diagnose the deviation.
Non-Surgical Treatment Of A Deviated Septum?
Most deviations are so minor that they need no treatment at all either because they have no symptoms or their symptoms are mild.
The treatment of a deviated septum can be surgical and non-surgical depending upon the urgency and severity of the situation.
There are medications like antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and decongestants that can help you breathe through your nose and get rid of any blockage.
Surgical Treatment Of A Deviated Septum
For most severe cases, the treatment for a deviated septum is a surgical procedure called septoplasty, which is a two-hour procedure that involves removal of the deviated cartilage and stitching back in its fixed version without deviations.
The good thing about a septoplasty is that you’re allowed to go home the same day with bandaging. Your face will remain swollen for a few weeks and during this time, breathing may be uncomfortable, but you can manage the pain efficiently at home with the right medication.
Can You Prevent A Deviated Septum?
People who are born with a deviated septum can’t do anything to prevent it. However, if you don’t have a deviated septum at birth, you can make sure to:
- Avoid high contact sports
- Wear a seat belt while driving
- Use a helmet or protective gear when playing sports.
Outlook For People With A Deviated Septum
Most people live a symptom-free life, but others require a septoplasty to fix the issues. People who undergo surgery find relief after their recovery period is over. Sometimes the septum tends to deviate back into its original position. In this situation, contact your healthcare provider and schedule another septoplasty.
Conclusion
A deviated septum is a very common condition that is easily manageable and treatable. If you have symptoms that are affecting your day-to-day life and causing breathing issues, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
