Deviated nasal septum

Deviated nasal septum - treatment

The nasal septum is an anatomical formation, which is a plate that divides the nasal cavity into two halves. Its anterior part is formed by cartilage tissue, and the posterior part by thin bone.

Table of contents:

• Deviated nasal septum - treatment
• Symptoms of a deviated nasal septum
• Treatment of deviated nasal septum
• Surgery
• Laser treatment
• See popular articles
• Commentary “Deviated nasal septum - treatment”
• Azamat
• Deviated nasal septum
• Nasal septum
• Causes of a deviated nasal septum
• Deviation of the nasal septum. Symptoms.
• Types of deviated nasal septum
• Diagnostics of the nasal septum
• Why do you need surgery on the nasal septum?
• Treatment of deviated nasal septum
• If you have any questions, call us at:
• Contact center operators will provide you with the necessary information on all your questions.
• Deviated nasal septum: symptoms and treatment
• Deviated nasal septum - main symptoms:
• general description
• Features of the pathogenesis of deviated nasal septum
• Deviated nasal septum: causes
• Deviated nasal septum: types
• Deviated nasal septum: symptoms
• Deviated nasal septum: associated disorders
• Diagnosis
• Treatment

A deviated nasal septum is a fairly common disease that occurs at any age and is characterized by a whole range of symptoms.

Depending on the cause of the deviated nasal septum, there are several types of this disease:

1. Physiological curvature is most often diagnosed in adolescence. The deformity develops as a result of a discrepancy between the growth rates of the cartilaginous and bone parts of the nasal septum.
2. With prolonged pressure on the cartilaginous part of the septum from foreign bodies and polyps in the nasal cavity, a compensatory curvature of the septum develops.
3. Deformation of the nasal septum as a result of trauma occurs 3 times more often in men than in women, since males are much more likely to be injured.

Symptoms of a deviated nasal septum

The severity of the symptoms of the disease depends on how severely the septum is deviated. A slight deviated septum that causes no symptoms occurs in many people. In such cases, treatment is usually not required.

The following symptoms are characteristic of this disease:

1. Difficulty in nasal breathing, up to its complete absence. With a unilateral curvature, airflow disturbance will be observed on one side of the nose. It should be noted that in many patients with severe deformation of the nasal septum, this symptom may be completely absent.
2. Due to impaired nasal breathing, snoring occurs during sleep.
3. Dryness in the nasal cavity.
4. Frequent inflammatory diseases of the paranasal sinuses are sinusitis (sinusitis, ethmoiditis, frontal sinusitis), resulting from a violation of the outflow of secretions from the sinuses through the nasal passages. The accumulation of secretions in the cavity of the paranasal sinuses creates favorable conditions for the development of infection.
5. In some patients, when the disease persists for a long time, polyps form in the nasal cavity, which make breathing even more difficult.
6. Changes in the shape of the nose, which most often occurs due to injuries to the nose.

Treatment of deviated nasal septum

This disease is characterized by changes in the osteochondral structures, so elimination of the curvature of the nasal septum is performed surgically. Conservative therapy aimed at alleviating the symptoms of the disease is usually ineffective.

Surgery

An endoscopic operation during which a defect in the nasal septum is corrected is called “septoplasty”. The surgical approach is performed through the nasal cavity; no incisions are made on the face. The duration of the surgical operation, performed under general or local anesthesia, usually does not exceed one hour. At the end of the operation, gauze swabs and special silicone retainers are installed in the nasal cavity, which are removed one day after surgery. Therefore, the patient usually does not need to stay in the hospital for more than a day. 5–7 days after septoplasty, the patient’s nasal breathing is completely restored, and all other signs of the disease disappear.

If a deformity of the nasal septum is detected in childhood, septoplasty is performed after the child reaches the age of 14 years. The exception is when the child has severe symptoms of the disease or often has infectious sinusitis. In such a situation, the operation can be performed under general anesthesia for children over 6 years of age. Surgical treatment of the disease in early childhood should be performed only after a thorough examination of the patient, as a result of which it will be proven that the cause of the symptoms is precisely the curvature of the nasal septum.

Laser treatment

This is a fairly new method of treating deformities of the nasal septum, which has a number of limitations, but is nevertheless successfully used in otorhinolaryngology. This treatment method is based on the effect of a laser beam. Certain areas of the cartilaginous part of the nasal septum are heated to the required temperature and fixed in the correct position using tampons for a day. The duration of the manipulation, performed under local anesthesia, does not exceed 15 minutes. Treatment can be carried out on an outpatient basis and causes virtually no discomfort to the patient. Treatment of deformities of the nasal septum with a laser is possible only in cases where only its cartilaginous part is curved and the cartilage has not been broken.

Many patients diagnosed with this disease refuse treatment because they believe that the symptoms of the disease do not significantly impair their quality of life. Before refusing treatment or deciding whether it is necessary, you should understand the dangers of a deviated nasal septum, since the consequences of the disease can be very diverse. It has been scientifically proven that as a result of impaired nasal breathing, the brain does not receive 10–15% of oxygen, which affects the ability to work in adults and the mental development of children. In addition, changes are observed in the hematopoietic, cardiovascular and reproductive systems of the body. Due to disorders in the immune system, patients are less able to tolerate exposure to adverse environmental factors, especially hypothermia, which significantly increases the risk of infectious diseases of the respiratory system.

A specialist talks about the dangers of a deviated nasal septum:

See popular articles

Commentary “Deviated nasal septum - treatment”

Azamat

Hello. I operated on my nose 2 times, (curvature) there was no effect. How much does the operation cost for CIS citizens? Thank you.

Source: http://otolaryngologist.ru/8

Deviated nasal septum

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Resident of the microdistricts "Savelovsky", "Begovoy", "Airport", "Khoroshevsky"

Balashova Yulia Vyacheslavovna

Varnel Olga Leonidovna

Doctor of the highest category

Egorova Margarita Yurievna

Kapustina Anna Alexandrovna

Pyshny Dmitry Vladimirovich

Otorhinolaryngologist of the highest qualification category

Candidate of Medical Sciences

Ramazanova Gunay Alniyaz-kyzy

The nose is a very necessary organ that performs several important tasks. Our nose warms and humidifies the inhaled air, traps dust particles brought with the air, and neutralizes bacteria entering from outside. In addition, thanks to the olfactory region of the nose, we perceive and differentiate different odors.

Nasal septum

The nasal septum performs an important function in our nose, ensuring an even distribution of air flow between the right and left lobes of the nose. With the help of the nasal septum, the harmonious fulfillment of the following conditions is achieved: warming, cleansing, moisturizing. When the nasal septum is deviated, these functions are disrupted.

A deviated nasal septum is one of the most common diseases of the nasal cavity.

According to statistics, a deviated nasal septum is quite rare in young children; most often, almost half of all adults suffer from this disease, and in men, a deviated nasal septum is much more common than in women.

The baby's nasal septum is smooth and straight. Almost all of it consists of cartilaginous tissue, in which there are islands of ossification. Over time, the nasal septum turns into a bone one, and the bones grow together. As a person grows and certain processes in the body are disrupted, the nasal septum begins to bend.

Causes of a deviated nasal septum

• uneven growth of the skull bones, which leads to the fact that the dimensions of the nasal cavity also change, the nasal septum becomes crowded in the nasal cavity, and it has to bend;
• traumatic causes (most often they are typical for boys and men): as a result of a strong blow, the nasal bones are displaced, the nasal septum is deformed and the bones do not heal properly, which leads to a curvature of the nasal septum;
• the presence of polyps and tumors of the nasal mucosa, which leads to breathing problems in one of the nostrils, and then to a curvature of the nasal septum;
• hypertrophy (uneven development of one of the nasal conchas), putting pressure on the nasal septum.

Deviation of the nasal septum. Symptoms.

A deviated nasal septum can “give itself away” with the following symptoms:

• asymmetrical shape of the nose (especially noticeable when the nasal septum is deviated as a result of injury);
• constant chronic runny nose (impaired nasal breathing, mucous discharge from the nose);
• reflex headaches that arise as a result of constant touching of the nasal mucosa by the deviated nasal septum;
• loud snoring at night;
• nosebleeds that appear due to thinning of the mucous membrane in the direction of the curvature of the nasal septum;
• decreased performance, increased fatigue of the body due to reduced oxygen supply to the blood;
• discomfort during nasal breathing;
• frequent acute respiratory infections with coughing, sneezing, runny nose, fever;
• sore throat, sore throat, cough;
• hearing loss as a result of inflammation in the ear;
• decreased olfactory abilities;
• absent-mindedness, memory impairment.

Types of deviated nasal septum

The vast majority of adults have slight deviations of the nasal septum. But they do not interfere with proper air circulation through the nostrils and proper breathing.

The following types of deviated nasal septum are known:

• deviated nasal septum;
• crest;
• thorn;
• a combination of various types of curvature.

Most often, people have a deviated nasal septum in the front part. Deformations of the posterior part of the nasal septum are less common.

Configuration of the nasal septum and turbinates with a deviated septum: a - slight curvature of the nasal septum; b — S-shaped curvature of the nasal septum; c — curvature of the nasal septum at an angle.

Diagnostics of the nasal septum

To find out whether you need surgery on the nasal septum, you need to undergo a comprehensive diagnosis. Diagnosis includes an external examination by an ENT doctor, rhinoscopy, and the use of additional laboratory tests and tests.

An external examination by an otorhinolaryngologist allows you to determine the type of nose. In addition, the doctor evaluates nasal breathing. By bringing the cotton wool separately to each nostril, the vibration of the villi is examined during inhalation and exhalation.

An assessment of a person's sense of smell is also carried out for each nostril separately. The patient must identify the smell on the cotton wool with his eyes closed. If there is a curvature of the nasal septum, then the sense of smell is usually reduced.

Thanks to rhinoscopy, examination of the nasal cavity is achieved using special instruments. In his examination, the doctor may use anterior and posterior rhinoscopy.

Anterior rhinoscopy is used to better examine the nasal cavity and the formations there. It is performed using a nasal dilator and a special probe. Using anterior rhinoscopy, you can see nasal polyps, hematomas, abscesses and tumors in the nasal cavity.

Posterior rhinoscopy is an examination of the nasopharynx and nasal cavity from the mouth. This is done using a spatula and a special mirror.

Why do you need surgery on the nasal septum?

Indications for surgery to correct the nasal septum may be as follows:

• external cosmetic defect;
• difficulty breathing through the nose;
• chronic rhinitis;
• inflammation of the middle ear (otitis media), resulting from a deviated nasal septum;
• constant headaches;
• sinusitis, ethmoiditis, which appeared due to a deviated nasal septum.

Treatment of deviated nasal septum

Is surgery necessary for a deviated nasal septum? If you are very concerned about its consequences, then it is better to decide on this operation.

In our clinic, low-traumatic correction of the nasal septum is possible using various modern techniques.

Surgical treatment, for example, laser surgery for a deviated nasal septum, is carried out to normalize nasal breathing and restore the anatomy of the nasal cavity. Our clinic performs septoplasty surgery, which involves partial removal of the deformed cartilage and, if necessary, the bony part of the septum. Correction of the nasal septum through surgery allows for alignment and thinning of the curved cartilage, i.e. modification. The modified cartilage becomes flexible and pliable, allowing the surgeon to put it back in place and straighten the nasal septum.

For local curvatures of the nasal septum (spike, ridge, tubercle), minimally invasive endoscopic septoplasty is possible. Laser surgery to straighten the nasal septum is also considered one of the gentlest techniques.

In cases where a patient with a deviated septum complains of external deformation of the nose, rhinoplasty may be performed.

Our clinic employs highly qualified otolaryngologists and plastic surgeons with extensive experience in the field of aesthetic medicine. Trust your health to professionals, and soon you will forget about all the consequences of a deviated nasal septum! As a result of a successful operation, the halves of the nasal cavity become symmetrical and nasal breathing becomes free.

The price for surgery for a deviated nasal septum is here.

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Deviated nasal septum: symptoms and treatment

Deviated nasal septum - main symptoms:

• Sore throat
• A sore throat
• Nasal congestion
• Chronic runny nose
• Allergic reaction
• Decreased performance
• Difficulty in nasal breathing
• Dry nasal cavity
• Increased susceptibility to infections
• Snore

A deviated nasal septum is a deviation in which the septum moves to one or both sides of the midnasal line. A deviated nasal septum, the symptoms of which give more insight into what this condition is, occurs quite often; moreover, its perfectly straight parameters are an extremely rare phenomenon. This, in turn, allows us to assert that until certain manifestations, the deformation does not belong to the category of pathologies.

general description

Considering that from the above-mentioned feature, on the basis of which the curvature of the nasal septum can be considered practically as a normal condition, treatment of such deformation is simply not necessary, again, in most cases. Meanwhile, as is known, there are exceptions to all rules, and in this case, the exceptions lie in the influence of the altered state of the nasal septum, in which it is simply impossible to do without treatment. This is due, in particular, to a number of factors that negatively affect the patient’s quality of life and overall well-being. It is these factors and symptoms that make it clear that there is a specific problem associated specifically with the condition we are interested in that will be discussed in our article.

So, to begin with, let’s dwell on what the nasal septum is, what the functions of the nose are, and what, in fact, are the functions of the nasal septum that interests us. The nasal septum is an anatomical formation concentrated in the very middle of the nasal cavity; it is it that ensures its division into two identical parts, the left and, accordingly, the right. The nasal septum itself also has its own structure. So, it similarly includes two parts, one of these parts is concentrated in the nasal cavity (in its very depths), that is, behind, the other part is concentrated in front. The part located in front is a cartilaginous structure; when running along the back of the nose with a finger, you can easily feel it, thereby determining its pliability and elasticity. The cartilaginous part is most often susceptible to damage when it is injured.

The nasal cavity itself is the initial section in our respiratory system. Air, when it enters the nasal cavity, ends up in the nasopharynx, then goes to the larynx, followed by the trachea and, accordingly, to the bronchial system. The further path of air continues to the pulmonary alveoli, where processes directly related to gas exchange take place, in which, as the reader probably knows, air and blood are involved.

Returning to the more detailed structure of the nose, let us highlight its main sections:

• nostrils - are inlet openings that allow oxygen to pass directly into the nasal cavity;
• nasal cavity: initial section - this section is a space divided in two; this division, as already noted, is carried out due to the nasal septum, located here in a vertical position;
• nasal passages - they are concentrated from the initial section in the nasal cavity posteriorly, are divided into the upper, middle and lower nasal passages, they are limited by the lower, middle and upper nasal concha in the same order as their location;
• Choanae - are two such openings that provide communication between the nasal cavity and the nasopharynx.

The nasal cavity also consists of several types of walls, we list them below:

• anterosuperior wall - this wall is formed by the nasal cartilage and skull bones (nasal bones and process in the upper jaw);
• lower wall - this wall is the bottom of the nasal cavity, it is formed by the soft palate and palatine processes in the upper jaw (bone/hard palate);
• lateral walls - such walls are formed mostly by the ethmoid bone;
• nasal septum - it ensures the division of the nasal cavity in half, from the front part it is formed by cartilage, from the back part - by the vomer.

The inner surface of the nose is lined with mucous membrane, which, in turn, is subject to an abundant blood supply, in addition, it also secretes a significant amount of mucous discharge. Nerve receptors, which have a significant degree of sensitivity, are concentrated on the side of the upper nasal passage; this is the area that is olfactory.

The structure of the nose also contains turbinates. They are bone formations concentrated at the back of the nasal cavity; they also divide the nasal cavity into nasal passages (lower, middle, upper). The lower shell is a small and independent bone, the middle and upper ones look like processes emanating from the ethmoid bone.

The nasal passages communicate with the paranasal sinuses. Thus, the upper nasal passage is directly connected with the sinus, concentrated in the region of the sphenoid bone, and with the posterior sinuses, concentrated in the region of the ethmoid bone. The middle nasal passage communicates with the middle and anterior ethmoid sinuses, as well as with the sinuses concentrated in the maxillary bones - these are nothing more than the maxillary sinuses.

The ethmoid bone has many small cavities in the form of sinuses (anterior sinuses, middle and anterior sinuses). The sphenoid bone, which we highlight in the text, is located directly at the base of the skull; it is practically not visible from the outside. The body of this bone resembles a cube with “wings” extending to the sides. In the body of this bone itself there is an air cavity, which is the sphenoid sinus.

Now let's look at what functions the nose and the nasal sinus, directly connected with it, perform. In particular, the functions of the nose include the following:

• conducting air to the nasopharynx and larynx;
• ensuring humidification of incoming air due to the secretion of glands concentrated in the nasal mucosa;
• heating the air flow - this function is performed by the venous plexus, concentrated in the area under the mucosa;
• providing the protection for the respiratory tract required by them against the background of exposure to certain forms of mechanical irritants (mucus and hairs located in the nasal cavity ensure the retention of dust particles with their subsequent removal to the outside);
• providing protection from infectious effects (again, nasal mucus ensures the retention of various pathogens with their subsequent removal from the nasal cavity, in addition, this mucus also has bactericidal properties);
• perception of odors (this function is provided by the corresponding (olfactory) cavity).

As for the function assigned to the nasal septum, it is, in particular, to ensure the correct distribution of air flows for both halves of the nasal cavity. In other words, the nasal septum divides the air we inhale into two identical streams, which, in turn, allows for the linear movement of these streams through the respiratory tract. Due to this separation, the nasal cavity functions under optimal conditions for this (that is, with warmed, purified and humidified air entering it). Similarly, it can be understood that deformation of the nasal septum causes disruption of these functions.

What is noteworthy is that in newborn children the nasal septum is in that ideal state in which in other cases it is considered something of a fantasy - that is, it is both smooth and straight. It is still difficult to distinguish where the cartilaginous and bone tissue is located in it, because it almost completely has the appearance of cartilage with only a few areas of ossification. Over time, transformation into bones occurs, which is also accompanied by their fusion with each other. As a result of the disturbances accompanying these processes, the nasal septum begins to bend. In some cases, it can be difficult to establish the initial reasons that caused such changes.

When identifying an age group with this pathological change, it can be noted that a curvature of the nasal septum is diagnosed extremely rarely in early childhood; the period of development of the deformity mainly occurs in the adult years. According to some data, it is also known that in men a deviated nasal septum is diagnosed three times more often than in women.

Features of the pathogenesis of deviated nasal septum

Most often, a deviated nasal septum is accompanied by a disorder of nasal breathing, which may be associated with a disturbance due to deformation on one side of the nasal passages, or on both at the same time. This violation is caused not only by the narrowing of the nasal cavities as a result of the curvature, but also by the fact that the air flow does not flow correctly, turbulence is formed and areas with low pressure are formed.

Due to pathological impulses coming from the receptors of the mucous membrane towards the central nervous system, a response occurs to the nasal vasomotors, proper blood circulation is therefore subject to disruption, the nasal turbinates swell, the nasal lumen narrows. It is also a known fact that during normal processes during inhalation, the air flow, in accordance with physical laws, does not follow along the lower nasal passage, along the shortest path for this purpose, but in an arcuate manner, that is, first it rises high up to the area where the middle concha is located , even higher, and finally follows down to the choana region. When exhaling, the current follows along the lower nasal passage.

Taking into account such paths of air movement and breathing characteristics, when the nasal lumen is narrowed against the background of a deviated septum, the middle sections of the nose, provided that the lower section is free, the forced direction of the air flow when inhaling is determined by an unusual channel for this, that is, the air flow is directed through the lower nasal passage. Similar difficulties arise when the area of ​​the lower nasal passage narrows during exhalation. Taking this into account, provided that the middle or lower nasal passage is free, the possibility of developing nasal breathing disorder is also excluded.

It should be noted that nasal breathing disorder is also caused by the relationship between the curvature of the septum and the turbinates. It is known that the curvature of the septum is often accompanied by thickening (hypertrophy) of the shells, which is defined as compensatory hypertrophy; in addition, hyperplasia of the ethmoidal labyrinth also develops. Sometimes the curvature of the nasal septum is accompanied by hypertrophy of the turbinates from the posterior ends, mainly the lower ones, this is revealed with the appropriate diagnostic method (rhinoscopy).

The changes listed above explain the fact that curvature of the septum to one side leads to difficulty breathing on both sides at once; moreover, sometimes patients even complain that breathing is more difficult not from the side of the septum overlap, but from the side of its concavity.

What is noteworthy is that in frequent cases it happens that a deviated septum diagnosed in youth manifests itself with corresponding clinical symptoms much later, sometimes it even happens that such symptoms appear already in old age. This is due to the addition of certain diseases of the nose, its paranasal sinuses and a general type of concomitant disorders (impaired lung function, disorders of the cardiovascular system, etc.), against the background of which it is increasingly difficult for the patient to overcome resistance from the nasal passages that have undergone narrowing.

A deviated septum can also cause the development of reflex neuroses in patients, caused by irritation of the nerve endings of the nasal mucosa. This is especially true for spines and ridges, which in some cases cut quite deeply into shells. Irritations can provoke reflex changes, both in the nose and in nearby or distant organs. Rhinogenic reflex disorders, that is, disorders of the specified nature of occurrence, consist in the development of bronchial asthma, eye diseases, laryngeal spasms, headaches and other conditions (we will highlight them in more detail below, in the corresponding section of our article).

Deviated nasal septum: causes

One of the main causes of a deviated nasal septum is trauma to the nose. The frequency of occurrence of this deformity in men only confirms this fact, because men (in particular boys, teenagers, young people) are many times more likely to experience injury to this area compared to women. Even more rare is the option in which the cause of the curvature of the nasal septum is an overdeveloped rudiment of the Jacobson's organ, located in the area of ​​the anterior-inferior part of the nasal septum.

In general, there are three types of causes that provoke a deviated nasal septum:

• Physiological curvature. This type of deviated septum mostly occurs in children and adolescents. This curvature is caused by a mismatch between the cartilaginous and bony parts of the nasal septum.
• Compensatory curvature. This type of curvature develops due to long-term irritation of the nasal septum due to a foreign body, a polyp formed in the nasal cavity, the impact of a thickened nasal turbinate, etc.
• Traumatic curvature. This type of curvature, as the name suggests, is caused by trauma that causes nosebleeds and sudden disruption of nasal breathing. In frequent cases, a deviated nasal septum is preceded by a nasal fracture.

Deviated nasal septum: types

The following main types of curvatures are distinguished:

• direct curvature of the nasal septum;
• thorn;
• crest;
• mixed curvature, combining 2 or 3 of the listed curvature options.

Actually, the curvature of the nasal septum can manifest itself in the following varieties:

• curvature in a horizontal plane or in a vertical plane;
• unilateral curvature or bilateral curvature;
• curvature localized from the anterior part of the septum or curvature localized from the posterior part;
• curvature, in which a certain area of ​​the septum is captured (for example, a dislocation of the cartilage with its separation from the bone), with the capture of the vertical plate of the ethmoid bone region (with the formation of the anterior part of the bone portion of the septum), with the capture of the vomer (with the formation of the posterior part of the septum).

Predominantly, such curvatures of the nasal septum are diagnosed in which it is concentrated from the front part. The capture of the vomer, which is localized at the rear, occurs less frequently. Almost always its rear edge is in a vertically precise position. Spikes and ridges are usually located on the lower or upper edge of the opener; they can have different directions and different lengths. Mostly the basis of the ridges and spines is bone tissue; in some cases, cartilage may be at the base of their apex.

Deviated nasal septum: symptoms

To one degree or another, symptoms of a deviated nasal septum appear in almost all people. Meanwhile, for most of them, these symptoms do not bring any discomfort or unpleasant sensations, and therefore special treatment to eliminate such deformity is not required.

Let us highlight the main symptoms of a deviated nasal septum that most often bother patients.

• Difficulty in nasal breathing. This symptom in considering the deformation we are considering is practically its main manifestation. The degree of its manifestation can vary, ranging from mild breathing difficulties to the absolute impossibility of breathing through the nose (that is, the patient in this case breathes only through the mouth). Meanwhile, despite the fact that this symptom is the main manifestation of a curvature of the nasal septum, this does not at all indicate that its absence excludes curvature. Here, as already noted, a pattern of development of the disease may appear after some time, that is, when diagnosed in youth, symptoms are noted at a later age, which is determined by the compensatory abilities of the body until a certain time. There are no complaints about difficulty in nasal breathing during this period. In general, breathing impairment can either be moderate or completely absent (as we have already highlighted, the patient breathes through his mouth). It should be noted that if a person has a large nasal cavity, then even a pronounced curvature of the nasal septum may be accompanied by the absence of a symptom in the form of impaired nasal breathing - this feature allows one to compensate for the passage of air passing through the nasal cavity when breathing. In other words, if the nose breathes well, this does not at all mean that there is no curvature of the nasal septum as such.
• Chronic runny nose (rhinitis). In this case, patients are bothered by a constantly stuffy nose, which is also accompanied by constant mucous discharge. In some cases, this is accompanied by the patient’s complete disregard for the need to visit a doctor, which he attributes, in particular, to frequent colds and weak immunity.
• Chronic sinusitis, sinusitis, ethmoiditis.
• Snore. Night snoring (and snoring in general) is also one of the disorders of nasal breathing.
• Allergic reactions. Those changes that are relevant for the nasal cavity against the background of a condition caused by a deviated nasal septum are, in any case, associated with a violation of the immune system, as well as with a dysfunction of local protective mechanisms. Manifestations caused by this factor not only consist in a decrease in the body’s overall resistance to the effects of infections, but also in the development of allergic reactions in patients. A fairly common problem among patients with a deviated nasal septum is allergic rhinitis, and it itself is pre-asthma - that is, a condition that precedes the subsequent development of bronchial asthma. First of all, complaints of nasal congestion appear, and the patient himself notes that this is accompanied by contact with a certain substance, considered as an allergen (pollen, animal hair, etc.).
• Dryness of the nasal cavity.
• Decreased performance, increased fatigue, low resistance to any type of physical activity. The listed symptoms are directly related to impaired nasal breathing function, as well as the accompanying insufficient supply of oxygen to the blood through the lungs.
• Susceptibility to infectious effects. Infections manifest themselves with symptoms characteristic of acute respiratory infections (cough, runny nose, fever, sneezing).
• Impaired thinking, memory, absent-mindedness. There is also a connection here with insufficient oxygen supply to the blood, which subsequently affects the functions of the brain and central nervous system.
• Symptoms accompanying the inflammatory process in the middle ear (hearing loss, pain).
• Symptoms accompanying the chronic course of the inflammatory process in the larynx and pharynx (cough, dry throat, sore throat, sore throat).
• Epileptic seizures. This manifestation accompanies a severe form of deviated nasal septum; as additional manifestations, convulsive seizures can include heart pain, blurred vision, shortness of breath, high blood pressure, etc.
• Changing the shape of the nose. Traumatic curvatures of the nasal septum (cartilage fracture, dislocation) are accompanied by a change in the shape of the nose itself; the displacement, as is clear, occurs to the left or to the right. This, as has already been highlighted, may be accompanied by a fracture of the nasal bones. Without adequate treatment measures for this type of condition, cartilage fusion does not occur as it should.

A deviated nasal septum in children also has some characteristics. So, it can be either congenital or acquired, that is, it develops during labor and after it. The main signs on the basis of which one can assume the relevance of a deviated nasal septum in this case are breathing through the mouth (the mouth is constantly slightly open), frequent detection of rhinitis, frequent nosebleeds, snoring during sleep. In addition to the curvature of the nasal septum, based on the manifestation of the listed symptoms, one can also assume the relevance of the adenoids in the child.

Deviated nasal septum: associated disorders

Complications of a deviated nasal septum can be completely varied. For example, it has been proven that impaired nasal breathing causes the development of changes in the blood and in the vascular system of the body, in the genital area. In addition, the patient’s body becomes more predisposed to hypothermia and various types of influences from the external environment and negative factors in it in particular.

Now let's dwell on those disorders that occur as a result of changes provoked by a deviated nasal septum, and start with the most basic in terms of symptoms, that is, difficulty in nasal breathing. Among the pathological mechanisms that provoke impaired nasal breathing against the background of a deviated nasal septum, we highlight the following:

• A change in the nasal passage (its narrowing) from the side of the area where the septum has a convex shape. Due to the decrease in space on one side, it leads to corresponding difficulties accompanying the passage of air, which, as already noted, can lead to the complete impossibility of breathing through the nostrils on this side.
• The development of disorders associated with the dynamics of air directly inside the nasal cavity. Normal breathing is accompanied by an upward rise of air during inhalation and its subsequent passage through the middle nasal passage, as well as through the upper passage (partially). When you exhale, the air is directed, again, normally, to the lower nasal passage. If the septum is curved, then the air flow is correspondingly disrupted, causing breathing to be impaired in one of the nasal passages. This feature is relevant even if the lumen on the same side of the other two nasal passages is in normal condition.
• Narrowing of the space of the nasal passage, as well as disruption of nasal breathing on the side in which a concavity has formed due to deformation of the nasal septum. Here, as has also already been noted, symptoms can manifest themselves in an even more pronounced form than on the side of the bulge formed against the background of deformation. The expansion of the nasal passage leads to the development of compensatory growth of the nasal turbinates, which over time become so large that they cause corresponding difficulties in breathing.
• The development of a reaction from the nerve endings in the nasal mucosa. The air flow, in the absence of any pathologies and changes in the nasal cavity, is itself uniform, but if we are talking about a curvature of the nasal septum, then the passage of air is accompanied by the formation of turbulence. Because of them, nerve endings - receptors concentrated in the nasal mucosa - are subject to irritation. This, in turn, causes the formation of an appropriate protective reaction, which consists in the dilation of the vessels of the mucous membrane, the development of swelling in it and the appearance of mucus in significant volumes.
• Suction of the wing of the nose to the nasal septum. This feature appears quite often as a result of curvature of the nasal septum from the front part. Due to the tight and constant connection of the wing of the nose to the nasal septum, the passage of air is significantly hampered.

Changes in the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity against the background of a deviated nasal septum

A number of changes also occur in the nasal mucosa; let’s look at them in more detail. For example, in the normal state of the nasal cavity, the mucous membrane produces a certain amount of mucus, which, in turn, ensures air humidification, as well as the performance of protective functions. The surface of the epithelial cells has cilia, which, in turn, are in constant motion, thereby ensuring the retention of dust and various small particles when they are subsequently removed from the nose.

The turbulence of the air flow that occurs when the nasal septum is bent leads to the fact that this flow in a certain area of ​​the nasal cavity begins to constantly hit the mucous membrane. In such an area, its thickening subsequently occurs, which is accompanied by the loss of cilia by epithelial cells. This, as the reader can understand, leads to a disruption of protective functions, as well as to the fact that the process of cleansing dust and small mucous particles is also disrupted. When secreted, the mucus begins to dry out, causing crusts to form. Thus, the nasal mucosa becomes increasingly vulnerable to the effects of various microorganisms. At the same time, rhinitis develops - a condition manifested in the form of constant nasal congestion and runny nose.

Development of oxygen starvation in tissues and organs against the background of a deviated nasal septum

It is the normal course of the processes accompanying nasal breathing that determines whether a sufficient amount of oxygen will enter the lungs, and then into the blood. If the nasal septum is curved, then gas exchange in the alveoli of the lungs is disrupted, which, in turn, leads to the development of a general form of oxygen starvation, which affects the entire body.

Deviated nasal septum: mouth breathing and accompanying disadvantages

As you know, nasal breathing is the only normal form of breathing. If nasal breathing is disturbed, which is important for the altered state of the nasal septum against the background of curvature, then another, compensatory form of it is activated - mouth breathing. Considering that in itself it is no longer normal, then, as you can understand, it also has a number of corresponding disadvantages, we will highlight them below:

Deviated nasal septum: nerve disorders

Due to the curvature of the nasal septum, the nasal mucosa is in a constantly irritated state, which, in turn, leads to complications of a reflex nature, some of which may even seem somewhat unexpected to the reader. We highlight these violations below:

• Headache;
• Reflex cough, sneezing;
• Spasms of the larynx (this type of condition manifests itself in the form of short-term attacks of suffocation);
• Bronchial asthma (the disease in one of its varieties may manifest itself precisely because of a neuropsychic imbalance that is relevant to the patient);
• Epileptic seizures;
• Dysmenorrhea (this disorder is relevant for women; it consists of a violation of the duration and frequency of menstruation);
• Violations associated with vision, as well as disorders associated with the functioning of the heart and other internal organs.

Deviated nasal septum: disorders relevant to neighboring organs

We will also dwell on violations associated with neighboring organs in a little more detail below.

• Ears. In particular, in this case, there are disorders that manifest themselves in the area of ​​the middle ear and the Eustachian tube. When considering the location of the nasal cavity, you can notice that it passes to the nasopharynx, and its mucous membrane, in turn, has the pharyngeal openings of the eustachian (auditory) tubes on the left and right sides. The eustachian tube provides a connection between the nasopharynx and the middle ear cavity. The middle ear cavity is the tympanic cavity, which includes the auditory bones such as the malleus, stapes, and incus. Against the background of chronic inflammation that develops with a deviated nasal septum, mucus, as well as those infectious agents that were not removed from the nasal cavity due to corresponding disturbances in the functioning of the receptors, can easily end up in both the auditory tube and the tympanic cavity.
• Nose. In this case, this affected area is subject to the development of an inflammatory process in the area of ​​the paranasal sinuses; this pathology has a corresponding name, most likely known to the reader - sinusitis. In the context of considering the connection between inflammatory processes in the paranasal sinuses and a deviated nasal septum, it can be stated that it is scientifically proven. Patients in whom such a connection is detected quite often suffer from the development of phronitis (a disease accompanied by inflammation of the frontal sinus area) and sinusitis (a disease accompanied by inflammation of the mucous membrane of the maxillary (intramaxillary) sinus).
• Eyes. At this point, in particular, the lacrimal sac and tear ducts “suffer.” Normally, tears produced by the functions of the lacrimal glands are directed along the nasolacrimal duct to the nasal cavity. With a pathological curvature of the nasal septum, such a channel can act as a path through which the infection will spread.

Diagnosis

A doctor can often diagnose a deviated nasal septum only on the basis of an external examination. Here, in particular, they detect nasal scoliosis, as well as displacement of the tip. Meanwhile, rhinoscopy is considered as the main diagnostic method. As part of its implementation, with a deviated septum, asymmetry in the comparison of the nasal cavities is especially highlighted, in which one of the halves of the nasal cavity along its entire length or in a specific part of it has a greater width than in a similar section of the other nasal cavity. In addition, on one side, as part of this method of diagnostic research, the nasal turbinates are quite clearly visible, while on the other side they are either less visible or not visible at all.

A detailed examination, as well as an accurate determination of the localization of protrusions and bends in the nasal septum, including the features of their nature, is carried out with careful re-lubrication of the nasal septum and turbinate using a solution of cocaine (5%) in combination with adrenaline. Only based on the implementation of this measure can one subsequently gain an understanding of the configuration features of the septum and lateral nasal walls, after which the question of the need for surgical intervention can be decided.

X-ray examination is of little informative nature regarding the deformation of the nasal septum. Meanwhile, it may be needed if there is a need to determine the condition relevant to the area where the paranasal sinuses are located.

Treatment

Considering that a deviated nasal septum is a purely anatomical pathology, any type of conservative treatment methods (the use of tablets, vasoconstrictor drugs and drops, breathing exercises, folk remedies, etc.) determine insignificant effectiveness in improving the condition of patients, and in some cases even its complete absence as such. Therefore, the manifestation of symptoms accompanying the condition of a deviated nasal septum requires surgical treatment. Endoscopic septoplasty is considered as the main method of such treatment.

This operation does not require any incisions on the face, and the external shape of the nose is not subject to changes during the operation - the effect is carried out through the nostril, with dissection of the mucous membrane, with its subsequent separation from the nasal septum, plastic surgery and suturing. The duration of septoplasty is about half an hour to an hour; general or local anesthesia can be used. The completion of the operation is accompanied by the installation of silicone plates (splints) in the patient’s nasal cavity, as well as gauze swabs; they are removed the very next day after the operation.

Based on this, it can be understood that in a hospital setting, surgery to correct a deviated nasal septum will require a day. Within five to seven days from the date of the operation, you will additionally need to visit a doctor for special dressings, due to which it is possible to accelerate healing and also prevent the formation of adhesions.

Septoplasty can also be performed using a laser; this method of exposure is modern and has a number of advantages. Among the latter are the minimum degree of trauma, the minimum degree of blood loss, as well as the antiseptic effect provided by the laser, and a minimum of rehabilitation measures during the postoperative period. The main disadvantage of the laser treatment method is that laser septoplasty does not eliminate all forms of deformities, this is especially true when the bony part of the nasal septum is damaged.

In general, septoplasty (in one form or another) may be accompanied by the development of a number of complications. They may include the following:

• formation of voluminous hematomas under the mucosa;
• development of purulent sinusitis;
• the appearance of nosebleeds;
• formation of an abscess (abscess) in the area under the mucosa;
• deformation of the nose (this complication is mainly accompanied by a recession of the nasal bridge due to the resection being too high);
• perforation of the septum (the appearance of a defect or hole in it).

If symptoms indicating a deviated nasal septum appear, you should contact an otolaryngologist; you may also need to consult a plastic surgeon.

If you think that you have a deviated nasal septum and the symptoms characteristic of this disease, then doctors can help you: an otolaryngologist, a plastic surgeon.

We also suggest using our online disease diagnostic service, which selects probable diseases based on the entered symptoms.

Rhinopharyngitis is an inflammation that forms in the mucous membrane of the nose and pharynx. This disease is similar to two similar diseases that are concentrated in this area, namely pharyngitis and rhinitis. In other words, nasopharyngitis is a complication resulting from acute rhinitis, in which the pharyngeal mucosa becomes inflamed, which also makes complaints about pain that occurs when swallowing relevant. In turn, the pharynx becomes reddened, and its mucous membrane becomes thickened, becoming covered in some cases with mucus or purulent plaque.

Adenoiditis is an inflammation that occurs in the area of ​​the pharyngeal tonsil. The process of inflammation is infectious-allergic in nature, while adenoiditis, the symptoms of which in its course occurs by analogy with the inflammatory process that occurs with a sore throat, with a long course and undertreatment can provoke the occurrence and subsequent development of heart defects, kidney diseases, digestive organs and other pathologies .

What is ARVI? Acute respiratory viral infections are contagious diseases of viral etiology that affect the body through the respiratory tract by airborne droplets. Most often, this disease is diagnosed in children aged 3–14 years. As statistics show, ARVI does not develop in infants; only isolated cases have been reported in which a child at that age suffered from the disease.

Laryngotracheitis in children and adults is an inflammatory disease that is often combined with damage to the larynx and trachea. Symptoms of the disease appear as a result of the penetration of various bacteria and viruses into the human body.

Adenoids in children are an inflammatory process that occurs in the pharyngeal tonsils and is characterized by an increase in their size. This disease is typical only for children aged from one to fifteen years, the most frequent exacerbations occur between three and seven years. With age, such tonsils decrease in size and then completely atrophy. It manifests itself in various forms and degrees, depending on factors and pathogens.

With the help of exercise and abstinence, most people can do without medicine.

Symptoms and treatment of human diseases

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Source: http://simptomer.ru/bolezni/organy-dykhaniya/348-iskrivlenie-nosovoj-peregorodki-simptomy