Deviated Nasal Septum and Sinus : A Comprehensive Guide

What is a Deviated Nasal Septum and Sinus?

Deviated nasal septum and sinus refer to a condition where the nasal septum, the thin wall of cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity into two nostrils, is displaced or deviated from its normal position. This deviation can lead to obstruction of the nasal passages and sinus cavities, causing various symptoms and discomfort.

Different types of Deviated Nasal Septum and Sinus:

1. Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS): The nasal septum is shifted to one side, blocking one or both nasal passages.
2. Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinus cavities, often associated with nasal congestion, facial pain, and headache.

Causes of Deviated Nasal Septum and Sinus: The causes of deviated nasal septum and sinusitis may include:

• Congenital deformities or irregularities in nasal septum development
• Trauma or injury to the nose, such as a broken nose
• Chronic sinus infections or inflammation
• Allergic rhinitis or nasal polyps
• Structural abnormalities in the nasal passages

Symptoms of Deviated Nasal Septum and Sinus: Common symptoms of deviated nasal septum and sinusitis include:

• Nasal congestion or blockage
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Facial pain or pressure, especially around the cheeks and eyes
• Headaches, particularly in the forehead or behind the eyes
• Postnasal drip, with mucus draining down the throat
• Reduced sense of smell or taste

Diagnosis of Deviated Nasal Septum and Sinus: Diagnosis of deviated nasal septum and sinusitis typically involves:

• Physical examination of the nasal passages and sinuses
• Nasal endoscopy to visualize the nasal cavity and sinus openings
• Imaging tests such as CT scan or MRI to assess the extent of septal deviation and sinus inflammation
• Allergy testing to identify potential triggers for sinusitis

Treatment Options for Deviated Nasal Septum and Sinus in India: In India, treatment options for deviated nasal septum and sinusitis may include:

• Medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, and nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms
• Nasal irrigation or saline sprays to rinse the nasal passages and sinuses
• Septoplasty or sinus surgery to correct the nasal septum deviation and clear blocked sinuses

Types of Deviated Nasal Septum and Sinus Surgery in India:

Type of Surgery	Description	Average Cost (INR)
Septoplasty	Surgical procedure to straighten and reposition the deviated nasal septum, improving nasal airflow	29,000 – 50,000
Sinus Surgery	Surgical procedures such as endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) or functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) to clear blocked sinuses and alleviate sinusitis symptoms	40,000 – 70,000

Benefits of Health Insurance for Deviated Nasal Septum and Sinus: Health insurance coverage for deviated nasal septum and sinus surgery offers several benefits, including:

• Financial protection against high surgical costs and hospitalization expenses
• Access to specialized otolaryngologists (ENT specialists) and modern surgical techniques
• Coverage for preoperative consultations, diagnostic tests, and postoperative care

Steps included in Deviated Nasal Septum and Sinus Surgery Procedure:

1. Preoperative evaluation and assessment of nasal septum deviation and sinusitis severity.
2. Anesthesia administration to ensure patient comfort during the procedure.
3. Implementation of the chosen surgical technique, such as septoplasty or sinus surgery, to correct nasal and sinus abnormalities.
4. Postoperative monitoring and recovery care to manage pain, prevent complications, and promote healing.

Health Insurance Coverage for Deviated Nasal Septum and Sinus Treatment in India: 

Most health insurance plans in India provide coverage for deviated nasal septum and sinus surgery. Coverage typically includes:

• Hospitalization expenses, including room charges, surgical fees, and anesthesia costs
• Surgeon fees and consultation charges
• Diagnostic tests, medications, and postoperative care related to the surgery

This detailed guide provides valuable information on deviated nasal septum and sinusitis in the context of Indian health insurance, covering various aspects such as causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and the benefits of health insurance coverage.