Understanding a Deviated Nasal Septum
Numerous studies of the nasal septal deviations have revealed widespread fidelity. In a study conducted by Dr.Grey in 1978, septum deviations were reported in 48-60% of newborns. In later reports, the prevalence in newborns ranged from 0.93 to 2.22%. In older children, studies are 12.4% in children aged 2.5-6 years and 13.6% in 6-9 year olds. In a recent international survey of adults, a prevalence of about 90% was seen. Given the wide variety of findings, the true prevalence of nasal septal deviation is unknown. As long as you do not block the intranasal airway, maybe you do not even know it ...The photo on the left is a CT image of a patient with a history of previous nasal trauma. In the image, an "S" shaped divergence is seen in the nasal septum.
Anatomy of the Nasal Septum
Before delving into nasal septum deviation, it's essential to understand the nasal septum's basic anatomy. The nasal septum is a central structure that divides the nasal cavity into two symmetrical passages, each leading to a nostril. It is made up of both bone and cartilage and plays a crucial role in maintaining the shape and function of the nose.
Causes of Nasal Septum Deviation
Nasal septum deviation can occur for various reasons, including:
Congenital: Some individuals are born with a deviated septum due to a genetic predisposition.
Trauma: Physical injuries or accidents can lead to a deviated septum. This often results from a direct blow to the nose.
Developmental factors: The nasal septum can also shift during childhood or adolescence as it continues to grow and develop.
Aging: As we age, the nasal structures can change, potentially leading to septum deviation.
Symptoms of Nasal Septum Deviation
• Blockage of one or both nostrils. This blockage can make it difficult to breathe through the nostrils. This may become more pronounced in cold weather (when upper respiratory tract infection occurs) or when you are allergic to nasal passages that cause swelling and constriction.
• Nose bleeds. The surface of your nasal septum may be dry, nasal obstruction increases your risk.
• Facial pain. Although there are some debates about possible nose causes in the face pain, a seriously deviated septum that affects the nasal wall while on the same side as the face pain inside is sometimes considered to be a possible cause ("bone spur formation" and "bony spikes on the bones that can cause atypical headaches" Bone Spur "links >> https://www.ent-istanbul.com/search?q=bone+spur
• Noisy breathing during sleep. This can occur in infants and young children with swelling of the swollen septum or intranasal tissues.
• Awareness of the nose cycle. It is normal for one side of the nose to become blocked when the other hole is blocked while the other is open, and vice versa. This is called the nose cycle. The nasal cycle is a normal phenomenon, but it is rare to be aware of the nasal cycle and it may be an indication that there is an abnormal amount of nasal obstruction.
• Prefer sleep on a particular side. Some people may prefer to sleep on a particular side to breathe through the night. This may be due to a stray septum that narrows the passage of a nose. For example, some patients may actually be a result of the septum deviation in the nose, which I habitually say, "I prefer to inhale or fit my lungs."
• Decrease in sleep quality (snoring and sleep apnea). As the airway within the nose decreases, sleep breathing may occur and blood oxygen levels may drop accordingly.
• Sinus infections. A deviated septum can impede proper drainage of the sinuses, increasing the risk of sinusitis.
Diagnosis of Nasal Septum Deviation
To diagnose nasal septum deviation, a healthcare provider, typically an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, will conduct a thorough examination. This may include:
A visual inspection of the nasal passages using an otoscope or nasal speculum.
Discussion of your medical history and symptoms.
In some cases, a nasal endoscopy, where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the nasal passages for a more detailed view.
Not Every Nasal Congestion is Related to Septum Deviation!
Nasal congestion can result from various causes, and not all instances of nasal congestion are related to nasal septum deviation. Nasal congestion can be a symptom of several conditions, including:
Infections: Common colds, sinus infections, and other upper respiratory infections can lead to nasal congestion.
Allergies: Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, pet dander, or other allergens can cause nasal congestion, often referred to as allergic rhinitis.
Environmental Factors: Exposure to irritants like smoke, pollution, or strong odors can lead to temporary nasal congestion.
Vasomotor Rhinitis: This condition is characterized by nasal congestion triggered by environmental factors, such as changes in temperature, humidity, or even stress.
Nasal Polyps: Non-cancerous growths in the nasal passages can obstruct airflow and cause congestion.
Medications: Some medications, particularly nasal decongestant sprays, can lead to a rebound effect, causing congestion when their effects wear off.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to nasal congestion in some women.
Structural Abnormalities: In addition to nasal septum deviation, other structural issues like enlarged turbinates or a deviated external nasal valve can also cause congestion.
It's important to recognize that the underlying cause of nasal congestion may vary from person to person. If you are experiencing chronic or severe nasal congestion, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider, such as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, to determine the specific cause and receive appropriate treatment or management. Treatment options can range from medications to lifestyle modifications and, in some cases, surgical interventions.
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Source links:
Deviated nasal septum. Incidence and etiology
Prevalence of Nasal Septal Deviation in New-borns and Its ...
[The incidence of septal deviation in newborns]. - NCBI
Nasal septal deviation in a longitudinal growth sample
Prevalence and clinical features of nasal septum deviation: a study in ...
Deviated septum - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
Murat Enoz, MD, Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon - ENT Doctor in Istanbul
Source links:
Murat Enoz, MD, Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon - ENT Doctor in Istanbul
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