Deviated Septum and Hypertrophic Sinusitis: Key Insights

Q: Deviated Septum and Hypertrophic Sinusitis: Key Insights

Hello： 1. A deviated septum primarily causes nasal congestion. If you do not experience nasal congestion or it does not affect your quality of life, surgery is generally not necessary. 2. It is not significantly related to other diseases. 3. Re

Deviated septum, hypertrophic rhinitis?

Hello Doctor: I have been suffering from a cold for about two months, with symptoms including cough, itchy throat, throat inflammation, nasal congestion, and runny nose.
These symptoms did not occur simultaneously.
I have visited a pediatrician three times and an otolaryngologist four times.
Finally, at an ENT clinic, the doctor performed an endoscopy and prescribed medication, advising me to get a referral to see a specific doctor at Kaohsiung X Hospital for further detailed examination.
He mentioned that he saw some swelling but did not specify what it was.

When I visited X Hospital, I had two appointments.
The first appointment was before I had the endoscopy at the clinic.
The doctor examined my throat and nose and diagnosed me with hypertrophic rhinitis, prescribing medication, but it did not resolve my symptoms; it only improved the itchiness of my throat.
During that time, my throat was inflamed and very painful every day.
Later, I went to the referred doctor at X Hospital, who conducted an examination and endoscopy.
He noted the presence of swelling but was unsure what it was and suggested a biopsy for further examination.
He also mentioned that I have a deviated septum, which he found to be quite crooked.
However, I have not experienced significant allergic reactions or frequent nasal congestion since childhood.
The doctor suggested considering surgery to correct the deviated septum.
I will be reviewing the examination report next week, and I would like to ask: 1.
If the deviated septum does not significantly affect my daily life, is surgery necessary? 2.
If I do not undergo surgery, could it lead to hidden issues? (I have a history of chronic headaches, and this time I was diagnosed with hypertrophic rhinitis, so I am concerned it may be caused by the deviated septum.) 3.
If I do undergo surgery to correct the deviated septum, how long will it take to return to my normal daily activities? Will it effectively improve my cold symptoms, or is it more beneficial for patients with chronic nasal congestion?

ALLEN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/08

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello:
1.
A deviated septum primarily causes nasal congestion.
If you do not experience nasal congestion or it does not affect your quality of life, surgery is generally not necessary.

2.
It is not significantly related to other diseases.

3.
Recovery after surgery typically takes about 1-2 weeks, and the procedure mainly addresses nasal congestion, which is not closely related to colds.

Wishing you peace and health,
Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi,
Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/07/08

More Info

Understanding a deviated septum and hypertrophic sinusitis is crucial for addressing chronic nasal and sinus issues, particularly when symptoms persist despite treatment. A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall between your nasal passages (the septum) is displaced to one side, which can lead to various complications, including nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, and increased susceptibility to sinus infections. Hypertrophic sinusitis, on the other hand, refers to inflammation and swelling of the sinus lining, often due to chronic irritation or infection, which can further exacerbate symptoms like nasal congestion, postnasal drip, and facial pain.

1. Surgical Considerations for Deviated Septum: If your deviated septum is not significantly impacting your quality of life, surgery may not be necessary. However, if you experience chronic nasal obstruction, frequent sinus infections, or other complications, surgical intervention, such as septoplasty, may be recommended. This procedure aims to straighten the septum, improving airflow and reducing the risk of sinusitis. It’s essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and recovery time associated with surgery.

2. Potential Complications of Not Undergoing Surgery: Leaving a deviated septum untreated can lead to ongoing issues. Chronic nasal obstruction can contribute to the development of hypertrophic sinusitis, as the blocked airflow can create an environment conducive to infection. Additionally, if you have a history of habitual headaches, it’s possible that the deviated septum could be a contributing factor, as nasal obstruction can lead to increased pressure and discomfort. While not everyone with a deviated septum will experience significant problems, it’s crucial to monitor your symptoms and consult with your healthcare provider about any changes.

3. Recovery and Effectiveness of Surgery: If you decide to undergo surgery to correct a deviated septum, the recovery time can vary. Most patients can return to normal activities within a week, although complete healing may take several weeks. The surgery can significantly improve nasal airflow and reduce the frequency of sinus infections, particularly for those with chronic nasal obstruction. However, it’s important to note that while surgery can alleviate symptoms related to the deviated septum, it may not directly address all causes of sinusitis or respiratory infections. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain a comprehensive approach to managing your sinus health, which may include medications, lifestyle changes, and regular follow-ups with your ENT specialist.

In summary, understanding the implications of a deviated septum and hypertrophic sinusitis is vital for making informed decisions about your health. If your symptoms are manageable, surgery may not be necessary, but if they significantly impact your quality of life, it may be worth considering. Always discuss your concerns and treatment options with your healthcare provider to ensure the best approach for your specific situation.

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