Do you have a deviated septum? If yes, you are supposed to seek medical help before it worsens and starts causing breathing problems. In most cases, a deviated nasal septum may exist since birth or may develop during fetal development. In other cases, you might have a deviated septum following an injury. Therefore, if you have a deviated septum and do not want to undergo surgery to cure your deviated septum, you can seek los gatos deviated septum treatment options available to help promote airflow through your nostrils and prevent nasal congestion. Examples of effective treatments that are worth trying include:
Nasal steroids
Most people diagnosed with a deviated septum usually experience difficulty breathing and some discomfort, especially with infections and allergies. In this case, nasal steroids are considered the best treatment available to help reduce allergic reactions. Usually, these medications are available over the counter, and for optimal results, they must be used for a long time. Some side effects you might experience while taking nasal steroids include stinging, dryness, soreness of the throat, and nasal bleeds.
Nasal strips
Nasal strips look like band-aids which are usually stuck on the nose to help lift the sides of your nose away from your nasal septum, thus opening up your nasal passage thus allowing free flow of air. In most cases, people using nasal strips are advised to wear them at night, especially before they go to bed. Another important benefit of wearing nasal strips is reducing snoring at night. They are readily available in local pharmacies and can be purchased without a prescription.
Allergic medications
Usually, an inflammation resulting from an allergic reaction can worsen the effects of a deviated septum. In such situations, antihistamines can be effective, either nasal sprays or chewable tablets. In most cases, you are advised to choose an antihistamine medication that does not cause drowsiness because it might interfere with your work or cause driving accidents.
Vaporizer
Humidifiers or vaporizers are small machines that often increase moisture content in the air. Usually, dryness in your nose can worsen the symptoms of a deviated septum. In that case, breathing moistened or humidified air deals with a stuffy nose, especially if you are experiencing an episode of sinusitis. Ensure proper ventilation in the room where you have placed your humidifier because if there is poor ventilation, dust mites, and molds thrive well in such environments.
Avoiding irritants
People with a deviated septum usually experience nasal congestion resulting from allergies. Therefore, you should avoid any irritant that can trigger an allergic reaction, thus causing nasal congestion. It would help if you avoided such irritants as perfumes, smoke, dust mites, pollen, paint fumes, animals, or household chemicals. You can also avoid certain food allergens, such as milk or red wine because they can cause nasal congestion.
All the above options can help individuals with a deviated septum live and breathe effectively without surgery. However, if you have tried any of the above treatment options but your symptoms keep worsening, you should consult your care provider, who may recommend surgery to provide symptomatic relief and cure for your deviated septum. You can schedule your appointment at Silicon Valley ENT & Sinus Center today and have your deviated septum examined to ensure you receive the best treatment to do away with all your symptoms.
