Snoring can be a major issue for both the snorer and their partner. It can lead to sleepless nights, irritability, and even health problems. While there are various reasons for snoring, one common cause is a deviated septum. This refers to a crooked or misaligned nasal septum, which is the wall that divides the two nostrils. When the septum is deviated, it can block the airflow through the nose and cause snoring. In this blog post, we will discuss how a deviated septum can contribute to snoring and how it can be treated to help you sleep soundly again.
What is a Deviated Septum?
The nasal septum is made of bone and cartilage and is covered with a mucous membrane. In a normal septum, it is straight and divides the nostrils evenly. However, in some people, the septum is crooked or off-center, which is known as a deviated septum. This condition can be present at birth or can develop due to injury or trauma to the nose.
Effects of a Deviated Septum on Breathing
A deviated septum can affect your breathing in several ways. The most common symptom is nasal obstruction, where one nostril is more congested than the other. This can make it difficult to breathe through the nose, leading to mouth breathing and snoring. A deviated septum can also cause sinus infections, as the blocked nasal passage makes it difficult for mucus to drain properly. This can result in chronic congestion and post-nasal drip, which can contribute to snoring.
Deviated Septum and Snoring
When a deviated septum causes nasal obstruction, it can lead to snoring. When we sleep, the muscles in our throat relax, and the soft tissues in the back of the throat can vibrate as we breathe. This is what causes the snoring sound. With a deviated septum, the airflow through the nose is restricted, and the body compensates by breathing through the mouth. Mouth breathing can lead to dryness in the mouth and throat, which can worsen snoring.
Diagnosing a Deviated Septum
If you suspect that your snoring is caused by a deviated septum, it is important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis. They will perform a physical exam of your nose and throat and may also use a nasal endoscope to get a better view of the nasal passage. In some cases, a CT scan may be ordered to get a detailed image of the nasal structures.
Sleep Soundly Again: Treating Snoring from Deviated Septum
Treatment Options for Snoring from Deviated Septum
The most effective way to treat snoring caused by a deviated septum is to correct the deviation. This can be done through surgery, also known as a septoplasty. This procedure involves straightening the nasal septum to improve airflow through the nose. It is usually performed under local or general anesthesia and takes about an hour to complete.
Another option for treating snoring from a deviated septum is using a nasal dilator. This is a small device that is inserted into the nostrils to open up the nasal passages and improve breathing. Nasal dilators can be worn during sleep and can be helpful for those who do not want to undergo surgery.
In addition to these treatments, there are also lifestyle changes and remedies that can help reduce snoring caused by a deviated septum. These include sleeping on your side instead of your back, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, and using a humidifier in your bedroom to keep the air moist.
Risks and Complications of Septoplasty
Like with any surgery, there are risks and complications associated with septoplasty. These may include bleeding, infection, and changes in the shape or size of the nose. It is important to discuss these potential risks with your doctor before undergoing the procedure. However, complications from septoplasty are rare, and the benefits of improved breathing and reduced snoring greatly outweigh the risks.
Summing Up
A deviated septum can be a major contributor to snoring, which can lead to a host of sleep-related issues. If you suspect that your snoring is caused by a deviated septum, it is important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Septoplasty, nasal dilators, and lifestyle changes are all effective ways to treat snoring caused by a deviated septum. By addressing the underlying issue, you can finally sleep soundly again and improve your overall health and well-being.
In summary, snoring caused by a deviated septum can be effectively treated through surgery, nasal dilators, and lifestyle changes. A deviated septum can affect breathing and contribute to snoring, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, you can finally sleep soundly again. Septoplasty is a common and effective procedure to correct a deviated septum, and complications are rare. Don’t let snoring from a deviated septum disrupt your sleep any longer, consult a doctor today.