Alternativesto septoplasty

Before going ahead with a septoplasty, there may be other things you can try first, depending on your condition.

If your nasal septum is deviated, surgery provides the most lasting and effective solution. However, many people try other treatments and get sufficient relief without the need for surgery.

Nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum is often made worse by allergies or infections. By treating the allergy or infection, your nasal obstruction may improve enough for you to breathe through your nose without surgery. Oral contraceptives and certain prescription drugs used for treating high blood pressure and mood disorders can also increase nasal congestion.

Medications for nasal obstruction and allergies

Nasal steroids

Steroid nasal sprays may be a long-term solution to nasal obstruction but don’t give immediate relief. You need to use them on a regular basis to reduce inflammation in your nose. They can cause side effects including headaches, nasal dryness, sore throat and, occasionally, nose bleeds. If you have other health conditions, you need to talk to your doctor before taking nasal steroids. Your pharmacist can recommend a steroid nasal spray.

Allergy medications

If your nasal obstruction has an allergic component, you may benefit from an antihistamine. They're available as tablets and nasal sprays. If you’re choosing a tablet, look for one that doesn’t cause drowsiness as this can affect your ability to drive and work.

Non-drug methods of treating nasal obstruction

Nasal strips

These are small adhesive-backed strips that you stick over your nose. They contain spring-like bands that help lift the sides of your nose away from the septum, opening your nasal passages. People often use nasal strips at night, especially if a blocked nose is causing snoring. Nasal strips are available from pharmacies.

Nasal irrigation

Rinsing out the inside of your nose with salt water can help relieve congestion. It can also boost the effectiveness of the tiny hairs (cilia) that line the inside of your nose and help clear mucus. Adding salt and bicarbonate of soda may feel more comfortable than plain water. Commercially available nose and sinus rinses (in squeezy bottles) can be found at pharmacies. You can get a nasal irrigation device called a neti pot from some pharmacies. It’s important to keep the device clean to reduce the risk of infection. Also, you must use a safe source of water. Tap water should ideally be boiled and cooled.

You can also buy saline nasal sprays at the pharmacy. They’re a good choice for children with nasal congestion.

A vaporiser or humidifier

Vaporisers and humidifiers add moisture to the air you’re breathing and can relieve nasal congestion, especially when you have an infection. Vaporisers heat water to make steam so they can be a hazard around children. Humidifiers produce a cool mist and are safer around children. If you’re using a vaporiser or humidifier, make sure your room has a chance to dry out regularly as the damp air can harbour bacteria, mould and dust mites. You also need to clean your vaporiser or humidifier carefully after use.

A hot shower

A hot shower creates steam which can act in a similar way to a vaporiser or humidifier and reduce nasal congestion.

Avoiding irritants

If you have a deviated septum, avoiding irritants that cause nasal congestion may help you avoid or delay surgery. Many things can cause nasal congestion or make it worse. An allergic reaction to pollen, dust mites or animals may cause additional nasal symptoms known as allergic rhinitis which may require treatment with antihistamines. Irritation from smoke, paint fumes, household chemicals or perfumes is another common cause of nasal inflammation. Some people experience nasal congestion in response to certain foods and drinks such as red wine, milk or beer.