Also known as Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS)
ABOUT THE DISEASE
Deviated septum is common disorder of the nose caused due to a shift of the nasal septum (the wall that divides the nasal cavity into two), away from the midline. Normally, it is straight and is located exactly in the middle of the nose. When it is bent towards the left or right it causes difficulty in breathing through the nose and can block the drainage of the air-filled spaces within the bones of the face (sinuses) causing repeated sinus infection.
SYMPTOMS
Some of these symptoms are observed only when you catch slight cold in the case of a mild disorder. However in severe cases some of the following might be persistent all the while.
- • Blockage in one or both sides of the nose.
- • Nasal congestion or stuffy nose.
- • Frequent sinusitis.
- • Headache.
- • Facial pain.
- • Excess collection of mucus at the back of the throat or nose (postnasal drip).
- • Snoring or sleep apnea
- • Bloody nose i.e nose bleeds.
CAUSES
Can be a congenital defect (present since birth) or can be caused due to a trauma.
DIAGNOSIS
- Physical examination
- CT Scan
TREATMENT METHODS
Surgery can be done to correct the deviation. Surgery is usually not recommended in minors as the septum grows till 18 years of age. The surgery to correct the deviated septum (septoplasty), is done only if the deviation is severe. This surgery is done through the nose.
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Rhinitis
Sinusitis
CSF Rhinorrhea
Sleep Apnea
Snoring
Nasal blockage/stuffy nose