How To Get Relief From Deviated Septum Nasal Congestion
If you’re struggling with nasal congestion from a deviated septum, here’s a quick guide to help you breathe easier:
- Quick Relief Options: Use BWLL Nasal Strips to physically open airways or try saline rinses to clear nasal passages.
- Home Remedies: Run a humidifier to keep air moist, sleep on your side or elevate your head to improve airflow.
- Medications: Decongestants, antihistamines, or steroid sprays can reduce swelling, but consult your GP before use.
- Lifestyle Tips: Quit smoking to reduce nasal tissue damage and stay hydrated to thin mucus.
- Surgical Option: If symptoms persist, consider septoplasty surgery to correct the septum and improve breathing.
For immediate relief, start with non-medicinal methods like nasal strips or saline sprays. If these don’t work, medications or surgery might be your next step. Talk to an ENT specialist to explore the best solution for your needs.
Is there a deviated septum treatment without surgery?
Why Deviated Septums Cause Nasal Congestion
A deviated septum happens when the nasal bone and cartilage are out of alignment, making one airway narrower and limiting airflow. This misalignment creates an obstruction, leading to uneven airflow when you breathe. Here are some common signs to watch for:
Common Signs and Symptoms
Look out for these indicators of nasal congestion caused by a deviated septum:
- Uneven Airflow: Noticeable difference in airflow between nostrils.
- Sleep Issues: Breathing problems that disrupt sleep.
- Constant Blockage on One Side: Persistent feeling of congestion in one nostril.
- Breathing Discomfort: A strange sensation when inhaling due to the uneven flow of air.
The intensity of these symptoms often depends on how much the septum is deviated, ranging from mild discomfort to serious breathing challenges that can interfere with daily activities.
Quick Relief Without Medicine
Ease the symptoms of a deviated septum with practical, non-medicated methods to clear nasal passages and improve breathing.
How BWLL Nasal Strips Work
BWLL Nasal Strips physically lift and open your nasal passages, making it easier to breathe:
- Step 1: Clean and dry your nose.
- Step 2: Place the strip just above the flare of your nostrils.
- Step 3: Press it down firmly and rub to secure the adhesive.
- Step 4: To remove, use warm water to loosen the strip.
These strips can be worn during sleep or throughout your day - up to 18 hours. They're made with hypoallergenic materials, making them gentle on sensitive skin.
Saline Sprays and Rinses
Create a saline rinse at home with these simple ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon (5g) of non-iodised canning salt
- A small pinch of baking soda
- 500ml of warm distilled, filtered, or boiled water
To use the rinse:
- Tilt your head sideways over a sink.
- Breathe through your mouth as you pour the solution into the upper nostril.
- Let the liquid drain from the lower nostril.
- Gently blow your nose to clear any remaining solution.
- Repeat on the other side.
Note: Always use distilled, filtered, or boiled water to minimise the risk of infection.
For added comfort, consider improving the air quality in your home.
Setting Up a Humidifier
A well-maintained humidifier can add moisture to the air, helping to thin mucus and improve drainage.
Cool Mist vs Hot Steam
| Type | Benefits | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Cool Mist | No burn risk; safer for children | Family homes, kids' rooms |
| Hot Steam | Quieter and adds warmth | Adult bedrooms, cold areas |
Place the humidifier in your bedroom while you sleep. Follow the manufacturer's care instructions to prevent bacterial growth.
Medicine Options for Symptom Relief
When non-medicinal approaches don't quite do the trick, medications can help manage nasal congestion caused by a deviated septum.
Decongestants: What You Need to Know
Decongestants work by reducing swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, easing stuffiness and facial pressure. They come in two main types:
- Nasal sprays: These offer fast relief but should only be used for up to three consecutive days to prevent rebound congestion.
- Oral decongestants: These provide longer-lasting relief. Always check with your GP before starting them.
Antihistamines for Allergy-Triggered Congestion
If allergies are making your symptoms worse, antihistamines can help by blocking histamine, which causes nasal swelling. Here's how to use them effectively:
- Take them before you're exposed to allergens.
- Choose non-drowsy options for daytime use.
- Stick to the recommended dosage.
For more persistent inflammation, you might consider steroid nasal sprays.
Steroid Nasal Sprays
Steroid nasal sprays are designed to reduce long-term nasal inflammation. They take a few weeks to show their full effect and need to be used consistently as directed.
Nasal congestion can often get worse with allergies or infections. If you're dealing with frequent sinus infections alongside your deviated septum, it's a good idea to discuss additional treatment options with your GP.
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Daily Habits That Help Breathing
Simple lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference when it comes to breathing with a deviated septum.
Stop Smoking to Improve Nasal Health
Smoking harms nasal tissues and increases swelling, which can worsen symptoms of a deviated septum.
"Smoking has several injurious effects on the nasal mucosa. However, the nasal mucosa has excellent regeneration potentials and quitting smoking for sufficient periods of time may reverse these deleterious changes." (PubMed Abstract)
When you quit smoking, the nasal lining starts to repair itself. This reduces congestion, promotes healthier nasal cells, and improves overall nasal function. It can also lead to better outcomes if you undergo septoplasty surgery. These improvements can significantly enhance sleep quality, which is key for maintaining proper nasal airflow.
Sleep Positions That Support Better Breathing
The way you sleep can have a big impact on how well you breathe at night. Dr David Kim, an Otolaryngologist at Torrance Memorial Medical Center, explains:
"When a person lies down at night, there is more blood flowing to the head, leading to an increased congestion of blood vessels the nasal lining."
To improve airflow while you sleep, try these tips:
- Sleep on your side to keep your airways more open.
- Use an extra pillow to elevate your head slightly.
- If possible, sleep in a recliner or adjustable bed to help keep sinuses clear.
Adding a humidifier to your bedroom can also help by keeping nasal passages moist during the night.
Diet and Hydration for Clearer Airways
What you eat and drink can also affect nasal congestion. Adjust your diet to avoid foods or substances that may irritate your nasal passages. Staying hydrated is equally important, as it helps thin mucus and supports better airflow. Pair these dietary changes with breathing exercises to help maintain a steady, clear breathing rhythm.
Surgery: What You Need to Know
When daily routines and medications aren't enough, surgery might provide lasting relief. If non-surgical treatments fail to ease your symptoms, especially if you're dealing with severe breathing issues or frequent sinus infections, surgery could be a practical option.
About Septoplasty Surgery
Septoplasty is a procedure designed to straighten the septum, the structure that separates your nasal passages. The surgery usually lasts between 30 and 90 minutes. During this time, the surgeon makes an incision to access and adjust the septum, removing any extra bone or cartilage that obstructs airflow. Approximately 85% of patients report noticeable breathing improvements after the procedure.
Recovery Guidelines:
-
Initial Recovery Steps:
- Keep your head elevated
- Avoid physical strain
- Follow dressing care instructions
- Use saline sprays as directed
-
Recovery Timeline:
Most patients can return to light activities within a few days and resume their normal routines in about three weeks. Full recovery generally takes 1-2 months, with follow-up visits extending over 3-4 months. Avoid strenuous activities, like swimming, for at least six weeks.
To maximise these benefits, selecting an experienced specialist is essential.
Finding the Right Specialist
The choice of an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist plays a key role in achieving the best surgical outcomes. When preparing for your consultation, keep these factors in mind:
| Consideration | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Experience | Specialist’s expertise with septoplasty procedures |
| Hospital Affiliation | Access to quality facilities and support services |
| Recovery Support | Clear post-surgery instructions and follow-ups |
| Insurance Coverage | Clarity on costs and available rebates |
During your consultation, discuss:
- Your specific breathing issues
- Previous treatments you've tried
- What results you can realistically expect
- Recovery timelines and any special requirements
Surgery is generally considered only when other treatments have not worked. Your specialist should clearly explain why surgery might be the best choice for you and outline the improvements you can expect.
Conclusion
Tackle congestion from a deviated septum by using practical, effective strategies. BWLL Nasal Strips gently lift nasal passages, offering quick, drug-free relief for up to 18 hours. These hypoallergenic strips are especially helpful during sleep.
For ongoing relief, try combining approaches. A humidifier in your bedroom helps maintain moisture levels, while saline sprays can clear nasal passages. Minimising exposure to dust mites, smoke, and harsh chemicals can also reduce flare-ups. These simple steps lay the groundwork for better long-term care.
If you're thinking about surgery, make sure to explore non-invasive methods first. As Dr Matthew W. Shawl explains:
"If nonsurgical methods fail to provide you with lasting relief and symptoms persist, surgery might be considered".
Stay hydrated, elevate your head while sleeping, and use BWLL Nasal Strips regularly to improve airflow. If issues continue, consult with an ENT specialist to find the best treatment plan for your needs. By integrating these tips, you can take control of your nasal health and breathe more comfortably each day.
FAQs
What are the risks or side effects of using decongestants and steroid nasal sprays for a deviated septum?
Decongestants can sometimes cause side effects such as headaches, dry mouth, increased blood pressure, or even rebound congestion if used for too long. Rebound congestion occurs when overuse of nasal sprays leads to worsening symptoms as your nasal passages become dependent on them.
Steroid nasal sprays, while effective for reducing inflammation, may result in temporary side effects like nosebleeds, irritation, or dryness in the nasal cavity. In rare cases, they could also increase the risk of infections. Always follow your doctor’s advice and use these medications as directed to minimise risks.
Is septoplasty the right choice for fixing my deviated septum, and what should I know about recovery?
To determine if septoplasty is suitable for you, consult a healthcare professional who can assess your symptoms and discuss the potential benefits of the procedure. Septoplasty involves reshaping or removing parts of the cartilage and sometimes bone inside the nose to straighten the septum and improve airflow.
After the procedure, you might experience mild swelling, bruising, and some discomfort. Your doctor may place packing or splints in your nose to support healing. Recovery typically involves resting, using cold compresses to reduce swelling, managing pain as advised, and following gentle nasal care instructions. While initial recovery may take a few weeks, full healing and final results can take several months to a year. Always follow your surgeon’s guidance for the best outcome.
What lifestyle changes can help improve breathing with a deviated septum without needing surgery?
If you have a deviated septum and want to improve your breathing without surgery, there are several effective lifestyle adjustments to consider. Nasal strips can gently open your nasal passages, making it easier to breathe, especially at night. Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, which helps reduce nasal dryness and congestion. Taking warm showers or inhaling steam can also provide temporary relief.
It’s a good idea to avoid common irritants such as pollen, dust, and smoke, as these can worsen nasal congestion. Additionally, regular use of saline sprays can help keep your nasal passages clear and hydrated. These small changes can make a noticeable difference in your daily comfort and breathing ability.
