Deviated Nasal Septum – Crooked nose
A deviated nasal septum is when the thin wall inside your nose, made of cartilage and bone, is not straight. This can make it hard to breathe through one or both sides of your nose. Many people have a slightly crooked septum, but it doesn't always cause problems. However, a more severe deviation can lead to constant nasal congestion, sinus infections, and other issues.
What has caused my nasal septum to be bent?
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Trauma or Injury: Physical injuries, like a broken nose, can cause the septum to shift out of place.
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Congenital Causes: Some people are born with a crooked septum. This can become more noticeable as they age.
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Age-Related Changes: As people get older, the cartilage in their nose can weaken and shift, worsening the deviation.
Symptoms
Besides difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal blockage may be accompanied by:
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Nasal Congestion or blockage: Difficulty breathing through the nose, especially at night or during a cold.
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Frequent Sinus Infections: Poor drainage can lead to recurrent sinus infections.
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Nosebleeds: Dryness and irritation can lead to nosebleeds.
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Snoring: Poor airflow during sleep can increase snoring and occasionally contribute to sleep apnea.
Diagnosis
Dr Fragkiadakis can diagnose a deviated septum through a physical examination. He may use a nasal speculum or a nasal endoscope to get a clearer view (Flexible Nasolaryngoscopy). In some cases, imaging tests like a CT scan may be recommended.
Treatment
Treatment depends on how severe the deviation is and how much it affects your life. Mild deviations may not need treatment, but severe cases can be treated with medications or surgery.
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Medications
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Decongestants: Reduce nasal congestion, but not safe for long term use.
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Nasal Steroid Sprays: Reduce inflammation and improve airflow.
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Antihistamines: Help with allergy-related congestion.
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Saline Nasal Irrigation: Keeps nasal passages moist and clear.
Surgical Treatment (Septoplasty)
​If medications don't help, surgery may be needed. Septoplasty is a procedure to straighten the septum. It is done under general anaesthesia and patients can go home the same day. Recovery takes a few weeks, but most patients feel much
better after surgery. Sometimes, rhinoplasty is done along with septoplasty to improve the nose's appearance and function. Dr Fragkiadakis will advise you in case a rhinoplasty or any other procedure is needed.
Septorhinoplasty
If you have any further queries call 02087207499 or email contact@entgeorge.com
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