Are you tired of constantly struggling to breathe through your nose? Do you often wake up with a dry mouth and sore throat due to breathing through your mouth all night? You might be dealing with a deviated septum. This is a common condition where the cartilage between your nostrils is misaligned, making one nostril smaller than the other. While surgery is a common solution for severe cases, there are several easy steps you can take to get relief from a deviated septum. In this blog post, we’ll explore these steps and help you find the relief you need to breathe easily again. Let’s get started.
Use a Nasal Dilator
One of the easiest and most effective ways to get relief from a deviated septum is to use a nasal dilator. These small devices are inserted into your nostrils to help open up your airways, making it easier to breathe. They work by gently expanding your nasal passages, allowing more air to flow through without undergoing surgery. You need to note that fixing a deviated septum without surgery has sleep benefits, including improved sleep efficiency and reduced snoring. Ensure to talk to your doctor before using a nasal dilator if you have any doubts or questions.
There are many types of nasal dilators available, including adhesive strips, clip-on devices, and reusable inserts. While they may take some getting used to, nasal dilators can be a game-changer for those struggling with a deviated septum. Give them a try and see how much easier it is to breathe through your nose.
Apply Nasal Ointment
Another effective way to find relief from a deviated septum is to apply a nasal ointment. These topical treatments are designed to soothe and moisturize the inside of your nostrils, reducing inflammation and dryness caused by the condition. Many nasal ointments contain natural ingredients such as eucalyptus or menthol, which can help clear your airways and make it easier to breathe.
To use a nasal ointment, simply apply a small amount to the inside of your nostrils using a cotton swab or your fingertip. With regular use, you may find that your breathing improves and your symptoms are reduced.
Take Hot Showers
Hot showers can be a simple and effective way to alleviate the symptoms of a deviated septum. The shower’s steam can help open up your airways and relieve congestion. By inhaling the steam, you can help to moisten the lining of your nose and reduce inflammation caused by the condition.
You can also add essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint to your shower for an added boost of relief. Try taking a hot shower before bed or in the morning to help you breathe easier throughout the day. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in how you feel.
Use Decongestants
Decongestants can also be an effective solution for those with a deviated septum. These medications work by narrowing the blood vessels in your nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. Over-the-counter and prescription decongestants are available, including nasal sprays and oral medications.
However, using these medications with caution is important, as overuse can lead to rebound congestion and other side effects. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and talk to your doctor before using any new medication. With the right usage, decongestants can be a helpful tool in managing the symptoms of a deviated septum.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines can also be an effective way to manage the symptoms of a deviated septum. These medications work by blocking histamine, a chemical released by your body in response to an allergen. By blocking histamine, antihistamines can help reduce inflammation and congestion in your nasal passages, making breathing easier. They are often used to treat allergies but can also be helpful for those with a deviated septum.
Like decongestants, it’s important to use antihistamines with caution and to talk to your doctor before starting any new medication. With the right usage, antihistamines can provide much-needed relief for those struggling with a deviated septum.
Nasal Steroid Sprays
Nasal steroid sprays are another option for those with a deviated septum. These prescription medications work by reducing inflammation in your nasal passages, which can help to alleviate congestion and other symptoms. They are often used to treat allergies and can also be helpful for those with a deviated septum.
Unlike decongestants, nasal steroid sprays do not cause rebound congestion or other side effects associated with prolonged use. However, it’s important to use them as directed by your doctor and to continue using them regularly for the best results. With the right usage, nasal steroid sprays can be a highly effective solution for managing the symptoms of a deviated septum.
Use a Humidifier
Using a humidifier can be an easy and effective way to relieve the symptoms of a deviated septum. These devices work by adding moisture to the air, which can help to soothe and hydrate the inside of your nostrils. By doing so, they can help to reduce inflammation and congestion caused by the condition.
Additionally, humidifiers can help to prevent dryness in your throat and mouth, which is often a side effect of breathing through your mouth due to a deviated septum. Try using a humidifier in your bedroom at night to help you breathe easier and wake up feeling refreshed.
Treat Allergies and Asthma
If you have allergies or asthma in addition to a deviated septum, treating these conditions can also help to alleviate your symptoms. Allergies can cause inflammation in your nasal passages, making it harder to breathe, while asthma can cause inflammation in your airways. By treating these conditions, you can reduce the amount of inflammation in your respiratory system, which can improve your breathing overall.
Treatment options for allergies and asthma can include medication, avoidance of allergens, and lifestyle changes. Talk to your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for you and ensure that you effectively manage all of your respiratory conditions.
A deviated septum can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but there are many effective ways to manage its symptoms. From using a nasal dilator or ointment to taking hot showers or using a humidifier, there are a variety of simple steps you can take to breathe easier. Additionally, treating underlying conditions like allergies and asthma can help to alleviate your symptoms even further. By working with your doctor and trying these various methods, you can find relief from your deviated septum and improve your quality of life.
