A deviated septum is a condition that can appear at birth, as a result of a treatment or after an accident. Whatever the circumstances may be, it is never easy, especially when you have to deal with constant congestion and infections. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available to people who suffer from the condition. In this article, we’re going to explore some of the treatments for deviated septums.
Decongestants
One of the most accessible and easy to use treatments for deviated septums is a good decongestant. While a decongestant may not fix the underlying issues that may be at cause, it will help alleviate the symptoms. Decongestants usually work by constricting the blood vessels in your nasal pathways to diminish inflammation and congestion. You can either choose to go for a decongestant in pill form or a spray. However, you should use decongestants with caution since they can be habit forming and symptoms can actually worsen once you stop using them. They can also cause jitters and increased blood pressure.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are used to relieve some of the symptoms associated with allergies and the flu, including runny noses and nasal obstruction. They can also assist with symptoms unrelated to allergies, such as those associated with the common cold. However, please note that some antihistamines have their fair share of side effects, such as drowsiness for example.
Surgical Repair
Septoplasty is probably the most intrusive, but most definitive cure for a deviated septum. During your surgery, your doctor may have to remove part of your septum so they can be reattached in the right position. The goal of the procedure is to reposition your septum closer to the center.
The level of success usually depends on the severity of your condition. In many cases, symptoms like nasal congestion disappear completely. However, symptoms that may be related to infections, such as nasal inflammation, may still persist a while after the procedure.
Some people find a way to deal with the symptoms of a deviated septum without having to resort to surgery. In many cases, their deviation may not be as severe, which allows them to live with minor symptoms. However, in more extreme cases, surgery may be the only solution. If you think that is your case, contact us today to schedule an appointment with the best ENT doctor in NYC.
Contact us at 212-867-4813 to schedule a consultation.