Gaining an Understanding of Deviated Septum: An All-Inclusive Guide You may not give your nose’s structure much thought until problems arise. A deviated septum is one persistent problem that many people encounter. This post will discuss the definition of a deviated septum, its signs and causes, diagnosis, available treatments, post-operative recovery, & how to locate an ENT physician in Oklahoma City like Dr. Richard Orgill. ENT doctor OKC
Key Takeaways
- A deviated septum is a condition where the nasal septum, the wall between the nostrils, is significantly off-center or crooked.
- Symptoms of a deviated septum may include difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, and facial pain or pressure.
- A deviated septum can be diagnosed through a physical examination, nasal endoscopy, and imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI.
- Treatment options for a deviated septum may include medications to reduce nasal congestion, nasal steroid sprays, or surgery to correct the septum.
- After deviated septum surgery, patients may experience swelling, congestion, and mild discomfort, and it is important to follow post-operative care instructions for a smooth recovery. When finding the right ENT specialist in OKC, it is important to look for a board-certified physician with experience in treating deviated septums.
When the thin septum, which separates your nasal passages, is shifted to one side, it is called a deviated septum. Airflow may be impacted, resulting in a number of symptoms, if one nasal passage is noticeably smaller than the other. It may not even occur to you that you have a deviated septum until you begin to have problems, such as trouble breathing through your nose or recurrent sinus infections. The sensation of having a deviated septum is comparable to trying to breathe through a partially blocked straw.
It may make basic tasks like sleeping or working out more difficult. It may be worthwhile to investigate the possibility that a deviated septum is the cause of your inability to breathe through your nose. Understanding the Signs.
If you are having trouble breathing during physical activities or are always reaching for tissues, it’s time to see an ENT physician in Oklahoma City.
While some people have a deviated septum from birth, others may acquire it as a result of nasal trauma or injury. For example, a misalignment of the septum may result from contact sports or an accident that affected your face.
Understanding is the first step towards effective treatment. Effective treatment requires that you understand the underlying cause of your symptoms, which Dr. Richard Orgill can assist you in determining during your consultation. An extensive examination by an ENT specialist such as Dr. Dot Orgill is usually the first step in diagnosing a deviated septum.
Before doing a physical examination of your nose during your visit, he will inquire about your symptoms and medical background. This can entail looking more closely at your nasal passages with a tiny, illuminated device. To determine the extent of the deviation and rule out other possible problems, extra imaging tests, like a CT scan, might occasionally be suggested.
This all-encompassing method guarantees that you will receive an accurate diagnosis and assists Dr. Orgill in deciding on the best course of action for your particular circumstance. There are a number of options for treating a deviated septum, depending on how severe the condition is and how much it interferes with day-to-day functioning. Conservative therapies like nasal sprays, decongestants, or antihistamines may alleviate symptoms in mild cases. By using these choices, you can lessen inflammation and increase nasal passage airflow.
Surgery might be required, though, if your symptoms are more severe or persistent. Septoplasty is the most popular method for repairing a deviated septum. In this procedure, Dr.
Orgill will realign or remove the parts of the septum that are obstructing airflow. Many patients say that this procedure has significantly improved their quality of life, enabling them to breathe easier and engage in activities that were previously difficult for them. Knowing how to recover from surgery for a deviated septum is essential to getting the best outcome. You may have some nasal swelling and discomfort following the procedure, which is quite normal.
To help you manage any pain and encourage healing, Dr. Dot Orgill will give you detailed aftercare instructions. It’s crucial to refrain from heavy lifting and other physically demanding activities for at least a few weeks during the initial recovery phase. To lessen swelling and encourage drainage, you might also need to sleep with your head up.
The majority of patients experience noticeable improvements in their breathing within a few weeks following surgery, though it might take some time for your nasal passages to heal completely. Attending follow-up appointments with Dr. Orgill is also crucial in order to track your progress toward recovery and address any worries you may have.
He is going to help you get well and make sure you’re headed in the right direction. Selecting the best ENT physician in Oklahoma City is crucial when dealing with nasal health concerns. In addition to experience, you want someone who will take the time to hear your worries and offer tailored treatment. Countless patients have benefited from the guidance of reputable board-certified ENT specialist Dr.
Richard Orgill in resolving their nasal health issues. Examine their credentials, experience, and patient testimonials to determine which ENT specialist is best for you. Setting up an initial consultation is also beneficial so that you can go over your symptoms and available treatments in greater detail. You will be able to determine whether the doctor’s approach meets your needs and expectations during this meeting.
Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Dot Orgill’s office today if you are experiencing symptoms associated with a deviated septum or if you have inquiries concerning sinus treatment or hearing loss. Making the initial move toward improved nasal health can greatly enhance your quality of life.
Call to Action Are you ready to ease your breathing and enhance your general health? Make an appointment with Dr. Richard Orgill right now!
He is a top ENT physician in Oklahoma City and is committed to offering individualized treatment that is catered to your particular requirements. Now is the time to take charge of your health and stop letting nasal problems hold you back.
If you are interested in learning more about ear-related issues, you may want to check out this article on hearing loss on Dr. Richard Orgill’s website. Understanding the causes and treatment options for hearing loss can be just as important as learning about deviated septum issues. Dr. Orgill’s expertise in otolaryngology can provide valuable insights into various ENT conditions, including tonsillitis, which you can read about in this article.
FAQs
What is a deviated septum?
A deviated septum is when the thin wall (nasal septum) between your nasal passages is displaced to one side, making one nasal passage smaller than the other.
What are the symptoms of a deviated septum?
Symptoms of a deviated septum may include difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, facial pain, noisy breathing during sleep, and recurring sinus infections.
How is a deviated septum diagnosed?
A deviated septum is diagnosed through a physical examination of the nose and nasal passages by a healthcare professional. In some cases, imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis.
What are the treatment options for a deviated septum?
Treatment options for a deviated septum may include medications to relieve symptoms, such as decongestants or nasal steroid sprays, or surgical intervention to correct the nasal septum, known as septoplasty.
What is septoplasty?
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to straighten the nasal septum. During the procedure, the surgeon will make incisions inside the nose and reposition the septum to improve airflow through the nasal passages.
Where can I find treatment for a deviated septum in Oklahoma City (OKC)?
In Oklahoma City (OKC), there are various ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialists and medical facilities that offer treatment for a deviated septum. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized treatment options.