“A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in the doctor’s book.” -Irish Proverb. Feeling tired is a way of life for many Americans. While hectic work and family schedules may contribute to sleeplessness, the true cause of the problem may lie in your nose. Trouble sleeping with a deviated septum is more common than you think.
Deviated septum is a common condition that can contribute to your sleep issues. Usually, the nasal septum is straight, lying about in the middle of the two nostrils. Occasionally, it may be bent (deviated) because of a birth defect or injury and positioned so that one nostril is much smaller than the other.
Most people have some minor deviation of the septum so that one nostril is tighter than the other. A minor deviation usually causes no symptoms and requires no treatment. However, if severe, a deviation may block one side of the nose and can be a factor in developing sleep apnea. Some other symptoms of a deviated septum include:
- Trouble breathing through the nose
- Nasal congestion
- Problems with sinus drainage on the blocked side
- Repeated sinus infections, such as chronic sinusitis
- Recurrent nosebleeds
- Pain in your face due to underlying sinus infection
- Headaches
- Postnasal drip
- Snoring
The good news is that trouble sleeping with a deviated septum is highly treatable. Before surgery becomes an option, your doctor will usually see if medications, like a nasal steroid spray, can help with your breathing problems. You may also consider alternative solutions like kratom and kava products from companies like shot of joy.
But if these medications cannot manage your symptoms, you may need to have a surgical procedure called septoplasty to correct your deviated septum. Usually, the septoplasty procedure takes about 60 – 90 minutes and the patient can resume work within 3 – 7 days after surgery. Our doctors can help you get the treatment you need for a good night’s rest. Give us a call to set up an appointment.