Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or a general practitioner. However, in some cases when you call to set up an appointment, you may be referred directly to an ear, nose and throat specialist.

Your time with your doctor is limited, so preparing for the doctor's questions to you as well as creating a list of questions to your doctor can help you make the most of your time together.

For a deviated septum and its complications, some questions your doctor may ask include:

• How long has your nasal obstruction been present?
• How much of the time are you aware of the nasal obstruction?
• Is one side of your nose worse than the other?
• Is the obstruction mild, moderate or severe?
• Have you had any trauma to your nose?
• Do you have allergies affecting your nose?
• Do you have a decreased sense of smell?
• Do you have problems with sinusitis?
• Do you have nosebleeds?
• Is there anything else that makes the obstruction worse?
• Is there anything you do that relieves the symptoms?
• What medications have you used previously for this?
• What medications are you currently taking for this?
• Does decongestant spray help?
• Are you currently using decongestant spray every day?
• Does using a nasal adhesive strip help?
• Is your nasal obstruction worse when you are lying down?
• Have you had any nasal surgery?

Some basic questions you might ask your doctor include:

• What is likely causing my symptoms or condition?
• What is the best course of action?
• What are the alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting?
• I have these other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?
• Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?
• Should I see a specialist?

In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask further questions during your appointment.