How to Manage Deviated Septum Symptoms
Deviated septum is common, affecting about 80% of people. The complication involves the bone and cartilage separating the nasal passage becoming misaligned and can cause several issues, including breathing complications. The good news is that the complication can be managed through several medical interventions. Mathew W. Shawl, MD, a board-certified otolaryngologist and expert surgeon, can help you manage issues associated with a deviated septum in New York. After a thorough evaluation and assessment of your symptoms, Dr. Shawl will recommend the appropriate treatment based on your unique needs. Learn more about managing the condition herein.
Diagnosis
If you experience any degree of misalignment in your nasal septum, you will be required to book an appointment with your doctor to discuss your treatment options. Your doctor will ask you about any symptoms you are experiencing and examine your nose’s interior using a bright light. They might also check the back of your nose using a unique instrument with a bright light at the tip. This will help diagnose your condition and understand the severity, helping them recommend the best treatment option to address your needs.
Use of Decongestants
Depending on your condition’s severity, your provider may focus the initial treatment plan on managing the symptoms. They can recommend decongestants to reduce nasal tissue swelling to keep the airways open. The decongestant medications are available as nasal sprays or as pills. However, the decongestants, particularly the nasal sprays, should be used with caution as they can create a dependency and make your symptoms worsen if you do not use them. Additionally, oral decongestants can also cause jitteriness and increase your heart rate and blood pressure.
Going for Antihistamines
Your doctor may recommend antihistamines when dealing with a deviated septum where your symptoms are allergic. If you are experiencing a runny or a stuffy nose, the medications can be recommended to avoid such issues. Also, antihistamines can be used to manage other nonallergic complications such as those associated with the cold.
Ensure that you follow your doctor’s directives strictly. The medications can have some effects such as drowsiness and make it difficult to perform tasks, particularly those requiring physical coordination.
Going for Nasal Steroid Sprays
Your provider can recommend nasal corticosteroid sprays to manage swelling and improve drainage in your nasal passage. However, it will take about three weeks for the medications to cause maximum effect. Therefore, it is critical to follow your provider’s directives carefully when using them.
Opting for Surgical Repair
While the medications mainly manage some of the symptoms associated with the deviated septum, surgical intervention might be needed to repair the deviated septum. Your doctor may recommend a septoplasty which involves straightening and repositioning the nasal septum. Your provider will remove some parts of the septum and reinsert them in a proper position.
Reshaping the Nose
Sometimes there can be a need to reshape your nose through a rhinoplasty procedure. In most cases, this procedure is carried out at the same time as septoplasty. It involves changing the shape and size of your nose by modifying the cartilage and the bone.
Let Dr. Shawl help you understand how you can manage your deviated septum during your consultation appointment. Reach out to Mathew W. Shawl, MD, to book your appointment. Your provider will help you get ready for your treatment and let you know what you can expect.
