Understanding Deviated Septum

Definition and Causes

A deviated septum is an anomaly where the thin wall (nasal septum) between your nasal passages is displaced to one side. In severe instances, this can lead to blocked airflow in one or both nostrils, leading to breathing difficulties. The causes can range from a congenital disorder— meaning it's present at birth— to an injury to the nose. Understanding the root causes of a deviated septum is crucial as it can help in effectively addressing the problem without resorting to surgical procedures.

Symptoms of a Deviated Septum

The problems associated with a deviated septum might not be overly noticeable. Nevertheless, some symptoms could indicate you have this condition. Some common signs include difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils, nasal congestion, recurrent sinus infections, nosebleeds, sleep problems, and noticeable breathing noise during sleep. Understanding these symptoms is critical as it forms the basis for the non-surgical remedies for a deviated septum.

Prevalence and Impact on Quality of Life

A deviated septum is a common condition, affecting a significant proportion of the population to some degree. However, if it's severe, it can significantly impact the affected person's quality of life due to the associated symptoms. Therefore, finding effective fixes for this condition is essential, especially those that don't involve invasive surgical procedures to improve an individual's quality of life.

Non-surgical Treatments for Deviated Septum

Nasal Dilators and Strips

Nasal dilators and strips are one of the most popular non-invasive remedies for treating a deviated septum. Dilators often come in two types- external and internal. External nasal dilators are typically flexible strips that are stuck on the bridge of the nose to widen the nostrils, improving air passage. On the other hand, internal dilators are devices inserted into the nostrils to keep them open. Both options can significantly improve symptoms related to a deviated septum.

Special Breathing Exercises

Engaging in special breathing exercises can help in managing the symptoms of a deviated septum. Practices such as the Buteyko breathing technique can address the difficulty in breathing through the nose. This technique involves shallow breathing exercises that can help reduce nasal congestion and other symptoms associated with a deviated septum.

Medications

Certain types of medications can also help in dealing with a deviated septum. Decongestants can reduce swelling in the nasal tissues, increasing the space for air flow. Antihistamines can help if allergies trigger your symptoms, and nasal steroid sprays can reduce inflammation in the nose. All these medications aim to make breathing easier and alleviate the discomfort caused by a deviated septum.

Preventing Nasal Injuries and Protecting Your Nose

Safety Measures During Physical Activities.

Protecting the nose from potential injuries, especially during physical activities, can help prevent a deviated septum. This might involve using protective gear, such as face masks and helmets in contact sports, or even avoiding physical confrontations that can expose your nose to harm.

Avoiding Drugs and Substances

Some substances and drugs, especially those ingested through the nose like cocaine, can damage the nasal tissues leading to a deviated septum. Therefore, avoiding such harmful drugs can go a long way in preventing the occurrence or worsening of this condition.

Effective Management of Allergies

Allergies can cause inflammation in the nasal tissues, leading to nasal congestion and eventually leading to a deviated septum. Effectively managing allergies through the correct medications and avoiding allergens can help in preventing a deviated septum or reducing its severity.