One of the reasons why you may need ENT (ears, nose, and throat) surgery is if you have a deviated septum. Most people's nostrils are not completely symmetrical, but this rarely causes problems. However, if it is severe enough, you could be prone to certain health problems. Surgery may be able to help in some cases. If you wonder if a deviated septum could be causing your problems, continue reading to learn more about how ENT surgery can help.
What Is a Deviated Septum?
Your nasal passage is divided into two parts with a thin line of cartilage. When part of this cartilage is not exactly straight, it is called a deviated septum. Deviated septums are fairly common but don't usually interfere with normal breathing processes. However, some deviated septums are so bad that they impede the airflow.
What Causes a Deviated Septum?
Some people are born with a deviated septum. However, other people obtain the condition by an injury to the nose. Those who play contact sports or are accident-prone have a higher risk of the condition. Also, aging can cause changes in your septum, so the problem could show up later in life.
How Does a Deviated Septum Cause Problems?
The main problem most people notice with a deviated septum is breathing difficulties. Nostril cycling — the process where the nostril you use to breathe changes side — is more noticeable with a deviated septum. You may also have a nasal-sounding voice when you talk. Additionally, a deviated septum can make you more prone to sinus infections, snoring, and nosebleeds.
How Can ENT Surgery Help a Deviated Septum?
Surgery for a deviated septum is called septoplasty. It is often done under local anesthetic. But, the surgeon may use general anesthesia under certain circumstances. Bone and cartilage are repositioned and removed during the process. The surgeon may insert silicone splints to strengthen the septum and keep it straight. In the end, you should have symptom relief and may even have a slightly different-looking nose.
Most people can manage having a deviated septum without surgery. However, if your deviated septum causes so many problems that it affects your life, then talk to your ENT doctor about surgery. Your doctor may want to treat you with other methods and use surgery as a last result. Surgery also won't cure other problems like allergic inflammation, so you may need treatment for that in addition to surgery. Your doctor will go over all your options with you to get you the best results. Contact an ENT surgeon for more information.
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