Can You Feel a Deviated Septum with Your Finger?
A deviated septum is a common condition where the thin wall of cartilage and bone separating the nostrils is displaced to one side, causing difficulty in breathing through the nose. Many people wonder if it is possible to feel a deviated septum with their finger. In this article, we will explore this question in detail and provide information on the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for a deviated septum.
Symptoms of a Deviated Septum
1. Nasal Congestion
One of the most common symptoms of a deviated septum is nasal congestion. You may experience difficulty in breathing through one or both nostrils, leading to a stuffy nose. This congestion may be more pronounced on the side where the septum is deviated.
2. Frequent Nosebleeds
A deviated septum can cause the nasal passages to become dry and irritated, leading to frequent nosebleeds. When the septum is deviated, it can obstruct the proper drainage of blood, resulting in nosebleeds that may occur spontaneously or with minimal trauma.
3. Facial Pain
In some cases, a deviated septum can cause facial pain, particularly around the area of the nose. This pain may be persistent or intermittent, depending on the severity of the deviation.
Can You Feel a Deviated Septum with Your Finger?
It is typically not possible to feel a deviated septum with your finger alone. The displacement of the septum occurs inside the nasal cavity, making it difficult to detect manually. However, there are other signs and symptoms that can help indicate the presence of a deviated septum.
4. Visible Asymmetry
In some cases, a deviated septum is visually noticeable from the outside. You may observe a visible asymmetry or crookedness of the nose, which can be an indication of a deviated septum.
5. Snoring or Sleep Apnea
A deviated septum can contribute to snoring or sleep apnea. The obstruction of the nasal passages can cause breathing difficulties during sleep, leading to excessive snoring or pauses in breathing.
6. Recurring Sinus Infections
Since a deviated septum can disrupt the normal airflow through the nasal passages, it can increase the risk of developing recurring sinus infections. The impaired drainage of mucus can lead to blockages and inflammation, providing a favorable environment for bacterial growth.
Treatment Options for a Deviated Septum
7. Medications
In mild cases, over-the-counter nasal sprays or antihistamines can help alleviate the symptoms of nasal congestion and inflammation. However, these medications do not correct the deviated septum itself.
8. Septoplasty
For more severe cases, surgical intervention may be recommended. Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to straighten the deviated septum. During this procedure, the surgeon will reposition or remove the obstructing cartilage or bone to improve nasal airflow.
9. Rhinoplasty
In some cases, septoplasty may be combined with rhinoplasty, a cosmetic procedure that alters the shape and appearance of the nose. This combination procedure can address both functional and aesthetic concerns.
FAQs about Deviated Septum
1. Can a deviated septum be present from birth?
Yes, a deviated septum can be present from birth (congenital) or can develop due to injury or trauma to the nose.
2. Can a deviated septum cause headaches?
Yes, a deviated septum can cause headaches, particularly if it leads to chronic sinusitis or nasal congestion.
3. Can a deviated septum be fixed without surgery?
In some cases, mild symptoms of a deviated septum can be managed with medications or nasal sprays. However, surgery may be required for more severe cases.
References:
1. Mayo Clinic. (2019). Deviated septum. Mayo Clinic.
2. American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. (n.d.). Deviated Septum. ENT Health.
3. WebMD. (2021). Deviated Septum: Diagnosis and Treatment. WebMD.
