Spurs

Nasal septal spurs are sharp bony or cartilaginous bumps along the septum, the wall that divides the two sides of the nose. When a spur sticks into the airway, it can narrow the passage and make breathing feel blocked on one or both sides. Some people also feel pressure or pain right where the spur touches the nasal lining.

Because airflow is disrupted, septal spurs can be linked with ongoing congestion, headaches, and sinus pressure. When the nose doesn’t move air well, the sinus openings may not drain properly, which can lead to repeated sinus infections, post-nasal drip, or facial pain. Snoring or noisy breathing at night can also be related to a spur that is crowding the airway.

To evaluate a possible septal spur, a nasal exam is performed, often with a small camera called an endoscope to clearly see the inside of the nose. Treatment can include medicines that calm inflammation, but structural issues are most reliably treated with surgery. A septoplasty can remove or smooth the spur and straighten the septum to open the airway.

In Beverly Hills, Dr. Richard Zoumalan carefully assesses nasal structure and symptoms to decide whether septal spur surgery is appropriate. His goal is to improve day-to-day breathing, reduce sinus problems, and relieve the discomfort that comes from blockage inside the nose.