Found within the nose, the septum separates the left and right nasal passages. Ideally, it’s located centrally. For some, the septum may not align perfectly, leading to potential issues with breathing, nasal airflow, or recurring sinus problems. A deviated septum can affect day-to-day comfort and health, leading some to seek treatment for relief.
What Is a Deviated Septum?
A deviated septum occurs when the nasal septum deviates from the center, making one nasal passage smaller than the other. While minor misalignment is common, significant deviations can lead to noticeable difficulties. These may include restricted nasal breathing, a tendency for one nostril to always feel blocked, or frequent nasal congestion.
Some individuals are born with this condition as part of their normal anatomy, while others develop it after an injury or trauma to the nose. This structural abnormality can give rise to additional issues over time, such as sleep disturbances, including snoring or sleep apnea, and recurrent sinus infections. While symptoms can vary, not everyone with a deviated septum experiences problems. For those with persistent or severe symptoms, medical evaluation often becomes necessary to confirm the condition and discuss potential solutions.
How Is It Treated?
Septal surgery, medically known as septoplasty, is a procedure aimed at correcting a misaligned or deviated septum. It focuses on reshaping and repositioning the septum to improve nasal airflow and alleviate related complications. During the procedure, the surgeon works through the nostrils, meaning external incisions are typically unnecessary. Portions of the cartilage or bone causing the obstruction are either reshaped or removed. Septoplasty is often performed under general anesthesia. Septoplasty is categorized as a functional surgery, focusing on improving breathing rather than changing appearance.
What to Expect From Surgery
Before the procedure, preparation often includes a detailed medical history review or imaging to document the deviation, and discussions with the surgeon regarding any potential risks. Patients may also need to temporarily avoid certain medications, such as blood thinners, to minimize the likelihood of complications during surgery. The surgery itself typically lasts between 30 to 90 minutes. Post-surgical care involves close attention to healing. While the procedure minimizes external scarring, swelling and minor discomfort in the nasal area are common following surgery. Rest and avoiding strenuous activities can encourage recovery.
Some patients might notice immediate improvements in breathing, while others may require a few weeks for the swelling to subside and full benefits to emerge. The use of nasal splints or packing may be recommended to stabilize the structure during the initial healing phase. Follow-up visits with the ENT specialist will likely be scheduled to monitor progress and address any concerns.
Confer With an ENT Specialist
If symptoms of a deviated septum are interfering with your quality of life, discussing the condition with an ENT specialist can provide treatment options. A qualified professional can assess the severity of the deviation and recommend tailored treatment approaches, whether surgical or non-surgical. Whether the goal is improved breathing, enhanced sleep, or relief from chronic nasal congestion, the path forward often begins with seeking expertise from the right healthcare provider.
- Exploring the Benefits of Hyperbaric Therapy for Wound Healing
- Identifying the Different Types of Leg Pain and Their Causes
- Depomin82: Everything You Need to Know
- iCryptoAI.com Innovation: A Revolutionary Approach to Crypto Trading and Market Insights
- Gärningen: A Deep Dive Into The Meaning, Use, And Cultural Relevance
