General Illness Information
Medical Term: Nasal septum, deviated.
CommonName: Deviated nasal septum.
Description: Abnormality of the septum of the nose, resulting in partial or almost complete obstruction of the affected side.
Causes: The septum of the nose is composed of bone in the back, and cartilage in the front. Any injury or malformation of these structures can cause a deviated nasal septum.
Prevention: Protection from nasal injury, especially with contact sports.
Signs & Symptoms
- There are usually no major symptoms, unless air flow is obstructed.
- Blocked feeling in the nostril.
- Nasal discharge, recurrent infections.
- Obvious nasal deformity.
- Injury to the nose.
- Surgery on the nose.
Diagnosis & Treatment
The diagnosis is made by direct examination, with a bright light and nasal speculum.
- If the obstruction is mild, no treatment is necessary.
- If there is marked obstruction, surgery is advised.
- Some types of surgery are: Submucus resection, septoplasty or rhinoplasty.
- Decongestants for minor discomfort.
- Antibiotics for infection.
- exercise caution in using over the counter nasal drops or sprays.
Possible Complications :
- Recurrent nosebleeds;
- Recurrent infections.
- If symptoms not troublesome, drastic treatment is not necessary.
- Surgery will usually clear up the problem.
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