Deviated Septum Specialist
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Joshua James, MD
Board-Certified ENT Specialist located in McKinney, TX & Frisco, TX
If a deviated septum makes it hard for you to breathe, you can find help at the office of Joshua C. James, MD, in Frisco and McKinney, Texas. Dr. James specializes in surgery to repair a displaced septum and alleviate blockages in your nasal passages. With the right treatment, you can start breathing easier and snoring less. Call the office of Joshua C. James, MD, today to find out more about surgery for a deviated septum or request an evaluation through the online booking feature.
Deviated Septum Q & A
What is a deviated septum?
Your nasal septum is a piece of cartilage that divides your nasal passages. When you have a deviated septum, it means the septum wall is displaced to one side.
This condition is often the result of structural issues in your nose that you were born with or from an injury to your nose. While many people have some degree of deviation in their nasal septum, not everyone is bothered by it.
Others may have a deviated septum severe enough to create a blockage in your nose, reducing your ability to breathe. The condition can also cause other symptoms like:
- Snoring
- Nosebleeds
- Facial pain
- Nasal dryness
- Loud breathing
In some cases, you can have a deviated septum without knowing it. However, if you develop an upper respiratory infection, a deviated septum can compound your breathing issues. The natural aging process can also increase the severity of a deviated septum.
How is a deviated septum diagnosed?
To evaluate the condition of your septum and confirm a deviation, Dr. James uses a bright light to examine the interior of your nose. He may use a special scope to look deeper into your nasal cavity to identify inflammation or other obstructions.
Once he evaluates the severity of your condition, Dr. James creates a treatment plan to improve your breathing and relieve the other symptoms you’re experiencing.
How is a deviated septum treated?
Surgery is a standard procedure to repair a deviated septum. The goal of surgery is to reposition your septum in the center of your nose. This may require cutting a portion of the cartilage to ensure a proper fit.
In some cases, specialized splints may be necessary to support the septum and keep it in the correct position in the center of your nose.
Following surgery, Dr. James may recommend that you use antihistamines or decongestants to relieve inflammation and treat existing sinus issues, like allergies or chronic sinusitis.
If you have trouble sleeping because of loud snoring or just want to breathe better, schedule a consultation online or by calling the office of Joshua C. James, MD, to discuss your options for treating a deviated septum.
