DEVIATED SEPTUM
A deviated septum is the displacement or deviation of the thin wall (the nasal septum) that separate the right and left nasal passages.
- The nasal septum is made up of cartilage and bone. When the bone and cartilage displaces from the center, a deviated septum is formed.
- The ideal nasal septum is exactly midline, dividing the left and the right nostrils into equal halves.
- The displacement of the septum from the midline causes one nasal passage to be smaller than the other.
- A severely deviated septum can cause blockage to one side of the nose leading to breathing difficulty.
CAUSES
- A person can be given birth to with a deviated septum. It can develop while the fetus is in the womb or during the birthing
- The condition can also be caused by an injury or trauma to the nose.
- Some cases are genetic or inherited.
SYMPTOMS
- Nasal congestion, with one side of the nose being more congested than the other.
- Nasal blockage, often more severe on one side
- Difficulty breathing
- Facial pain
- Nosebleeds
- A headache
- Loud breathing during sleep
- Snoring
- Postnasal drip
- Sleep apnea
- Frequent sinus infection.
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
DIAGNOSIS
An ear, nose and throat specialist called an otolaryngologist is typically required for the diagnosis
The doctor will first inquire about your symptoms and review your medical history for possible causes. These include previous nasal surgeries and injuries to the nose. Then a physical examination of the general appearance of the nose, including the position of the nasal septum occurs. This is done by using a bright light and a nasal speculum (an instrument that gently opens up the nostril) to visualize and inspect the inside of each nostril.
In rare cases where the deviated septum is farther back in the nose, further evaluation may be required. This is done by using a small telescope or endoscope.
Diagnosis is made base on the physical examination and the severity of the condition can be determined.
TREATMENT
A deviated septum is a common condition and does not require treatment If the symptom is not problematic or severe.
Deviated septum with mild symptoms such as nasal congestion and postnasal drip may be alleviated with medication. Medications only help with treating the swollen mucous membrane and won’t correct a displaced nasal septum. Such medications include:
- Decongestants, medications that reduce swelling of the nasal tissue and helps to keep the airways on both sides of the nose open. Decongestants are available as nasal spray or pills and should be used with caution.
- Antihistamines, medications that help to prevent obstruction and runny nose.
- Nasal steroid sprays, this is usually prescribed and can reduce inflammation in the nasal passage. It is very important to follow the doctor’s direction in using them.
If the deviated septum is severe that it causes sleep apnea, difficulty breathing, trouble nosebleeds or recurrent sinus infections, surgery may be recommended to fix the septum.
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that is recommended for severely deviated septum. During septoplasty, the displaced nasal septum is taken out, straightened and repositioned in the center of the nose. The surgery may be combined with rhinoplasty to modify and improve the appearance (shape or size or both) of the nose. This procedure is termed septorhinoplasty.