Is deviated nasal septum dangerous?

This is an automatically translated article.

The article was consulted with Specialist Doctor II Nguyen Van Thai - Ear - Nose - Throat Doctor - Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery - Vinmec Danang International Hospital.

1. Symptoms of deviated nasal septum

A deviated septum or deviated septum is a condition in which the nasal septum, composed of bone and cartilage that divides the nasal cavity into two nostrils, is significantly deviated or crooked, making breathing difficult. This condition is very common, many people have an irregular septum, making one nostril larger than the other.
Some nasal deformities can cause the following signs and symptoms:
Blockage of one or both nostrils: Making it difficult to breathe through the nostrils, which you can feel when you have a cold (upper respiratory tract infection) or allergies can cause your nose to swell and narrow. Nosebleeds: The surface of the nasal septum can become dry, increasing the risk of nosebleeds. Loud breathing while sleeping: A deviated septum or swelling of the tissues inside the nose can be one of many reasons why you breathe loudly while you sleep. Prioritize sleeping on your side: Some people like to sleep on their side to make it easier to breathe through their nose at night if the nasal passages are narrow.

2. Causes of deviated nasal septum

A deviated septum occurs when the nasal septum is displaced to one side. Causes of deviated nasal septum can be due to:
Birth defects: In some cases, deviated nasal septum occurs during fetal development and appears after birth. Nose Trauma: A deviated nasal septum can also be the result of an injury that causes the nasal septum to move out of place.

3. Treatment of deviated nasal septum?

To help relieve uncomfortable symptoms, patients need treatment that focuses on remedial measures such as:
Decongestants Antihistamines Steroid nasal sprays Decongestant and anti-snoring patches. If your symptoms do not improve with medication, your doctor may recommend surgery to correct a deviated septum (septoplasty).

Preparation: To prepare, you should avoid taking medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen for two weeks before and after surgery. These drugs may increase the risk of bleeding. You should also stop smoking, as tobacco can interfere with the healing process. During surgery: Septoplasty takes about 90 minutes and you will be under anesthesia. You may receive local or general anesthesia depending on your surgeon and medical condition. During surgery, the surgeon cuts the septum and removes excess cartilage or bone. This method will straighten your septum and nasal passages. Silicone splints can be inserted into each nostril to support the septum. The incision will then be closed with sutures. Complications: You will be monitored immediately after surgery for possible complications and it is likely that you will be able to go home the same day. In general, Septoplasty is safe for most people, including those requiring anesthesia. Vinmec International General Hospital with a team of experienced TMH doctors as well as a system of modern surgical instruments, endoscopy machines, ... is a prestigious place for examination and treatment.

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