There are many treatments available for deviated septum. You have two options. One is to undergo surgery. The other is to choose a more conservative approach. Read about the risks and benefits of surgery before you make a decision. You may need to have your septum replaced in some cases.
Treatment options
Deviated septums can make it more difficult to breath. However, there are several treatment options available for this condition. Some of these treatments can help relieve the symptoms of stuffy nose and sinusitis, and are also helpful in delaying surgery. These treatments include decongestants. They are medications that reduce nasal swelling. They can be taken either by mouth or sprayed directly into the nasal cavity.
If the condition is mild and doesn't cause any complications, surgery can be performed. Surgery is necessary if the septum becomes so severe that it affects breathing. If non-surgical treatments fail, ENT doctors, also called otolaryngologists recommend surgery.
Surgical options
A deviated Septum can be corrected by surgery. This will improve your ability to breathe and reduce congestion. There are two options: turbinate or valve reduction. You can also have surgery done to remove polyps, or to improve the function your sinuses. You should be aware of the risks and benefits associated with surgery if you are thinking about it.
Surgical procedures will not fix all deviated septums, but if the deviated septum is causing chronic congestion or is interfering with breathing, it may be time to seek surgical treatment. A deviated Septum can make your nose look uneven and cause you to be self-conscious about what your appearance is. A septoplasty, which can correct nasal structural anomalies and straighten the septum, is an option. Patients can return home the same day and without any bruising or scarring.
Surgery complications
Sinus infections can often be caused by a deviated Septum. These infections can cause inflammation and irritation of the nasal passages. They can also lead to infections in the eyes or brain. If they are not treated, they can spread into brain tissue, leading to seizures and brain damage. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct the septum.
There are a number of complications associated with surgery to correct a deviated septum. Although the risks of such surgery are relatively low, the procedure can result in long-term problems. Symptoms can include bleeding, pain, and infection. Sometimes, patients will need consultation with a neurologist to address any complications.
Allergy treatment
Doctors will diagnose deviated Septum based upon the symptoms and a physical exam of the nose and sinuses. A doctor will ask questions about patient's lifestyle and symptoms to help identify the underlying cause. A CT scan of the sinuses may be performed to assess the severity and extent of the problem.
Sometimes, patients can reduce their symptoms with allergy treatment for the deviated septum. It may reduce swelling in the septum and surrounding tissue, as well as relieve congestion. However, it won't solve the underlying problem.
Alternatives for surgery
Although surgery is the most common method to correct a deviated Septum, there are other options. The minimally invasive endoscopic procedure of septoplasty is an excellent alternative to traditional surgery. It provides excellent visualization of bone and cartilage, allowing the surgeon to target the deformity.
This procedure corrects a deviated septum by straightening and reinserting it in the nose. In order to align the septum properly, the surgeon may have to first cut it and then re-insert it. This will allow for better nasal airflow. Patients should know that this surgery is not permanent and that other conditions could make it worse.