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Should You Get Checked for a Deviated Septum?



The wall separating your nostrils, the septum, isn't always perfectly straight. Many people have a deviated septum, meaning the septum is slightly off-center. But a deviated septum only becomes a concern when it causes bothersome symptoms. In this blog, we'll be going over the symptoms that should


Mike Gerkin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons



What is a Deviated Septum?

A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall (nasal septum) between your nasal passages is displaced to one side. While many people have a slightly deviated septum, severe cases can lead to breathing difficulties and other issues.



Symptoms of a Deviated Septum

Common symptoms of a deviated septum include:




Self-assessment

The most reliable way to diagnose a deviated septum is to visit a healthcare professional, such as an ENT specialist, who can perform a thorough examination and possibly imaging studies if needed. While self-diagnosis of a deviated septum isn't definitive, there are some signs you can look for apart from the symptoms listed above.


Here are easy ways Cleveland Clinic recommends testing yourself at home:


Visual Exam

  • Take a handheld mirror or use a camera.

  • Hold it straight under your nose, pointed at your nostrils or nasal opening.

  • Look or take a photograph to see if your nasal opening or nostrils appear similar. If they are, you might not have a deviated septum.


Physical Test

  • Place your index finger outside one of your nostrils and push it toward the middle of your nose.

  • Breathe through the open nostril for one minute.

  • Rest for a minute, then repeat the test on the other nostril.

  • If breathing feels similar through each nostril, you may not have a septal deviation. However, if it’s unequal or difficult to breathe through one nostril compared to the other, you might have a deviated septum.


While these self-check methods can provide some insights, they are not conclusive and may not be accurate, especially for minor deviations. If you suspect a deviated septum based on these checks, it’s crucial to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.



Treatment Options

If you experience these symptoms and suspect a deviated septum, a visit to your doctor is important. They can perform a physical exam and possibly imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis. The good news is that not all deviated septa require treatment. But if your symptoms are significantly impacting your quality of life, surgery (septoplasty) is an option. This outpatient procedure reshapes the septum to improve airflow.


Beyond Surgery

For milder cases, there are non-surgical ways to manage symptoms:


  • Nasal saline irrigation:  Using a saline nasal rinse or a saline nasal spray to help clear congestion and keep nasal passages moist.

  • Over-the-counter medications:  Decongestants and allergy medications can provide temporary relief from congestion.

  • Humidity:  Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, especially helpful at night to ease congestion.



A deviated septum can significantly impact your quality of life, but effective treatments are available. If you're experiencing symptoms like nasal congestion, nosebleeds, or facial pain, consult with an ENT specialist to explore your options. Treatment can help improve your breathing and overall well-being.



 

Seek treatment for your deviated septum in Hollywood, FL


Our team of experienced healthcare professionals can determine if a deviated septum is the culprit behind your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan to get you back to feeling your best. Don't wait any longer! Contact ENT Family today and breathe easy in Hollywood, FL.


Address: 3911 Hollywood Blvd#201, Hollywood, FL 33021, United States

Phone: 754-888-1368






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Dr. David Eleff, Otolaryngologist/Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist at ENT Family in Hollywood, Florida.

This article has been medically reviewed by otolaryngologist, David Eleff, M.D.

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