Many people have a certain degree of nasal septum misalignment, which may not necessarily cause any symptoms. However, you may have trouble breathing through your nose in severe cases. The severity of deviated septum New York symptoms can vary widely depending on the degree of deviation.
Signature symptoms of deviated nasal septum
A deviated nasal septum can result in several symptoms, including difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent sinus infections, nosebleeds, snoring, and facial pain. You may also experience a congested or stuffy feeling in one or both nostrils or pressure in your face. In some cases, a deviated nasal septum may also cause headaches, sleep apnea, or even changes in the shape of your nose. The severity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the degree of deviation, with some people experiencing only mild discomfort while others may have more significant breathing difficulties. If you suspect you have a deviated nasal septum, inform your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What to expect during a deviated nasal septum consultation
During a deviated nasal septum consultation, you will typically meet with an otolaryngologist, who will take your medical history and ask about your symptoms, such as difficulty breathing through the nose, sinus infections, or nosebleeds. The doctor may then physically examine the nasal passages, using a small flashlight or an endoscope, to look for signs of deviation or other issues. In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans may be necessary to get a better look at your nasal septum. Based on the results of the consultation, Dr. Shawl will be able to provide a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include medications, nasal sprays, or in more severe cases, surgery to correct the deviation.
Available treatments for deviated nasal septum
The treatment plan for a deviated nasal septum will depend on the severity of the deviation and your symptoms. For mild cases, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications like decongestants, antihistamines, or saline nasal sprays to help relieve congestion and improve breathing. In more severe cases, prescription medications like corticosteroids or nasal antihistamines may be necessary to reduce inflammation and swelling in your nasal passages. In addition to medication, you may benefit from allergy testing and treatment to help manage any underlying allergies contributing to your symptoms.
Surgery may be necessary to correct the deviation for more severe cases of a deviated nasal septum. One common surgical procedure is septoplasty, which involves repositioning or removing the displaced bone and cartilage in the nasal septum. This procedure requires general anesthesia and may need to remain at the hospital for some time. After surgery, you may experience discomfort and swelling in your nasal passages, but this should gradually improve over time. In some cases, additional procedures like turbinate reduction or sinus surgery may also be necessary to address other related issues. You must follow your doctor’s post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and a successful outcome.
Call Dr. Shawl or book an appointment online for diagnosis and treatment if you suspect a deviated nasal septum.