Deviated Septum

Deviated Septum services offered in The Loop, Chicago, IL

It’s estimated that up to 80% of people have a deviated septum. The condition is usually mild and doesn’t cause problems, but you might have difficulty breathing if it’s severe. At Michigan Avenue Primary Care, the primary care and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists provide complete care for deviated septums. Call the office in The Loop in Chicago, Illinois, or book online to make an appointment today.

Deviated Septum Q & A

What is a deviated septum?

A deviated septum is when the wall separating your nostrils is pushed to one side. Most people have a slightly deviated septum, but it can block your airways if the problem’s severe, making it difficult to breathe.

Contact Michigan Avenue Primary Care immediately if you regularly experience a stuffy nose, congestion, or reduced airflow.

What are the symptoms of a deviated septum?

The symptoms of a deviated septum include:

Obstruction of one or both nostrils
Nosebleeds
Facial pain
Noisy breathing during sleep
Preference for sleeping on one side

If you experience a blocked nostril and it doesn’t improve with at-home treatment, contact Michigan Avenue Primary Care. That’s especially true if the blockage occurs alongside other symptoms like recurring sinus infections.

How is a deviated septum diagnosed?

Your Michigan Avenue Primary Care provider diagnoses a deviated septum during an in-office visit.

They review your medical records and ask about your symptoms, including when they started and if you’ve tried over-the-counter decongestants. Next, they shine a hand-held light inside your nose. They might also use a special tool to widen your nostrils.

Your provider carefully examines the tissues inside your nose and then applies a decongestant spray. If you have a deviated septum, your provider makes treatment recommendations.

How is a deviated septum treated?

Treatment of a deviated septum varies depending on several things, including your age and how severe your symptoms are. Michigan Avenue Primary Care might recommend:

Prescription decongestants
Prescription antihistamines
Nasal steroid sprays
Septoplasty (surgery to straighten and reposition the wall between your nostrils)

If your symptoms are severe, your provider might recommend rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty is a surgery done to reshape your nose's bones, cartilage, and skin.

What is recovery like after septoplasty?

After septoplasty, it’s normal to experience bruising, swelling, and nosebleeds. Get lots of rest, keep your head elevated above your chest, and drink plenty of fluids. In the days after the procedure, take your medication as prescribed and attend your follow-up visits. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Michigan Avenue Primary Care.

If you're concerned about having a deviated septum, make an appointment at Michigan Avenue Primary Care by calling the office or booking online today.