A septoplasty is a surgical procedure used to correct a deviated septum, which is caused by a displacement of the bone and cartilage that divides the nasal cavity into two nostrils. As a result of septoplasty, you may experience nasal obstruction and difficulty breathing. We will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies in this blog post.
A deviated septum is usually caused by trauma or injury to the nose, such as a broken nose. A congenital defect or abnormal growth of the nasal septum may cause a deviated septum to present at birth. In addition to chronic nasal congestion, inflammation caused by allergies and sinus infections can also cause a deviated septum to develop over time.
There are a variety of symptoms associated with a deviated septum, including:
Congestion or obstruction of the nose, particularly on one side
Having difficulty breathing through the nose, especially while lying down or exercising
Sinus infections or nosebleeds that recur
Pain or pressure around the nose or sinuses
Nasal obstructions that cause snoring or sleep disturbances
In order to diagnose a deviated septum, a healthcare professional, such as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, typically needs to conduct a physical examination. The doctor may use a nasal speculum to examine the inside of the nose and assess the position of the nasal septum. For evaluation of the extent of the deviation and any associated nasal abnormalities, additional imaging studies such as nasal endoscopy or CT scan may be ordered.
Symptoms of a deviated septum can be treated in a variety of ways, including:
Over-the-counter decongestants and nasal steroid sprays can relieve nasal congestion and inflammation caused by a deviated septum.
External nasal dilators or adhesive strips may be used to temporarily widen the nasal passages.
When conservative treatments do not resolve persistent symptoms, septoplasty may be recommended as a surgical correction of a deviated septum. This procedure improves nasal airflow and alleviates symptoms by straightening and repositioning the nasal septum.
In cases of traumatic injury, it may not always be possible to prevent a deviated septum. A deviated septum can be prevented, however, by taking precautions to protect the nose from injury during sports or other activities that carry the risk of nasal trauma. Inflammation and nasal congestion that can contribute to nasal septum deviation can also be prevented if underlying conditions like allergies or chronic sinusitis are managed promptly and effectively.
