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What Is A Deviated Septum?

The bone and cartilage that divides your nasal cavity into your left and right nostrils are called the septum. When this becomes crooked, it is called a deviated septum. Deviated septums are nasal obstructions that can lead to trouble breathing through one side of the nose. If you think you have a nasal blockage, you should schedule with ENTACC today.

i can't breathe trough both sides of my nose

Causes of a deviated septum

Most of the time, the septum deviates during fetal development or birth, but it can also be due to trauma. For example, trauma may happen during a car accident, sports, or some other type of accident. Cartilage may also deteriorate as we age, which can result in a deviated septum.

How do I know if I have a deviated septum?

Most people have a septum that is at least deviated slightly, but it usually doesn’t show symptoms unless it is a severe deviation. Some common symptoms of a deviated septum to look out for include:

Nasal congestion or difficulty breathing through the nose
Nosebleeds
Repeated sinus infections
Facial pain
Headaches
Postnasal drip
Noisy breathing
Snoring

How do we correct a deviated septum?

The way we treat a deviated septum depends on its severity. For a septum deviation that isn’t too severe, medication is usually enough to treat the symptoms. Prescribed medications include decongestants, antihistamines, or nasal steroids. These medications focus on relieving congestion and inflammation because these symptoms are what lead to more issues.
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When the deviation is too severe for medication, a surgery known as a septoplasty may be recommended. During a septoplasty, excess bone and tissue are removed to reposition the septum and promote better breathing. The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia, and most people can go home on the same day.

You can help to prevent a deviated septum by protecting your nose from trauma. Wearing a helmet and face-covering when applicable can help.

Need nasal obstruction treatment?

Whether you have a deviated septum or some other type of nasal issue, our doctors at ENTACC can diagnose you and provide the correct type of treatment.

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“I had stopped taking my allergy medicine and ended up with the worse sinus infection of my life. The staff at Ear, Nose & Throat Associates of Chester County genuinely will provide you with the best care. I was overwhelmed by the kindness, concern, and sense of urgency everyone gave. My phone calls were returned promptly and time was made to see me in the office when it was an emergency.”

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“The knowledge, encouragement, concern, and individual attention the doctors of Ear, Nose & Throat Associates of Chester County had demonstrated was far beyond my expectations. The office atmosphere is professional yet friendly. The doctors know their profession well and are able to explain in basic understandable terms. They made sure we were comfortable and took their time going over everything extensively.”

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