I am 36 years old and have experienced chronic breathing difficulties through my left nostril for several years. A previous ENT specialist diagnosed me with an enlarged nasal bone (likely a deviated septum or bone spur) and recommended surgery. I have severe anxiety about undergoing an operation and have avoided seeking further medical advice. Can this condition be effectively managed or cured with medication instead of surgery? |
Dr. S Aneela
M. Pharm (Pharmacology)., PhD
Medications unfortunately cannot cure this condition. Because a deviated septum or a bone spur is a physical, structural issue (actual bone and cartilage blocking the airway), medicine cannot shrink or move the bone. However, medications can definitely help manage the symptoms. Often, the breathing difficulty is a mix of the bone blocking the way and the soft tissue inside your nose swelling up. Medications like prescription steroid nasal sprays, antihistamines, or daily saline rinses can reduce that swelling. This might open up your airway just enough to make you feel more comfortable on a day-to-day basis. While you can use these medicines for temporary relief, I highly encourage you to see an ENT doctor again. Be completely honest with them about your severe anxiety regarding surgery. Medical techniques have advanced a lot, and there may be minimally invasive, in-office procedures available now that are much less scary. Even if traditional surgery is needed, your doctor can work with you to safely manage your anxiety throughout the process.
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