Deviated septum

Deviated Nasal Septum (Deviated Septum)

What is a deviated septum?

Nasal septum – wall, that separates the left and right nostrils. If the partition is centrally, in each nostril same amount of air supplied. When a deviated septum, its wall is not centered in the nose.

Deviated septum may cause no symptoms. In severe cases it may be blocked by the air flow through one or both nostrils. Blocking the nostrils may result in chronic congestion and increased risk of sinusitis – sinus infections.

Deviated septum – causes

The reasons include the curvature of the nasal septum:

  • The curvature is present at birth – It occurs during fetal development (5% cases);
  • Rodovaya nose injury;
  • Conk – often as a result of accident, during sports or violence.

Risk Factors curvature of the nasal septum

Factors, that may increase the risk of septal deviation include:

  • Contact sports, especially karate or boxing, without appropriate protective headgear;
  • Trauma – It is the most common risk factor for curvature of the nasal septum.

Deviated septum – symptoms

Symptoms include:

  • Bunged up nose (on one or both sides);
  • A sinus infection;
  • Bleeding from the nose;
  • Wheezing during sleep;
  • Facial pain or headache.

Diagnosis of curvature of the nasal septum

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination. It also will examine the nasal passages with a special nasal mirror.

Treatment of curvature of the nasal septum

Most people do not need treatment septal deviation. In severe cases, the curvature may be needed surgery. The operation to correct a deviated septum is called septoplasty. The procedure allows to remove nasal congestion, centering the septum between the nostrils.

Sometimes surgery to reshape the nose (Rhinoplasty) held in conjunction with septoplasty. These two procedures together are called septorinoplastika. Children, who require surgery, usually,We must wait to achieve 16 years, nasal septum is no longer growing.

Prevention of curvature of the nasal septum

To prevent a deviated septum:

  • Wear seat belts in cars and airplanes;
  • Wear appropriate protective headgear when playing sports.

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