(4) Whistling or hissing quality sounds. (This noise is bearable during the
day but more disturbing during the quiet of night.)
(5) Warning signs related to tinnitus are degenerative nerve process,
labyrinthine diseases, and tumors such as acoustic neuroma.
c. Treatment. Treatment for tinnitus is directed to the underlying causes, if the
causes are known. If the cause is unknown, reassure the patient. The patient may find
it helpful to play music softly at night. Those with difficult cases of tinnitus may be
referred to an ENT (ears, nose, and throat) neurologist or a psychiatrist.
Section III. NASAL CONDITIONS/THROAT CONDITIONS
3-23. INTRODUCTION
Nasal conditions are varied. They include septal deviation, septal ulceration and
perforation, septal hematoma or abscess, rhinitis medicamentosa, and nasal polyps.
3-24. SEPTAL DEVIATION
a. Description. A septum consisting of bone and cartilage divides the nasal
cavity into two passages. Some people have an absolutely straight septum, and some
people have a very crooked septum. Often caused by trauma, a crooked septum can
be present at birth. One nostril can be larger than the other when the septum is
crooked. A very crooked septum can cause complete obstruction of one nostril and
interference with sinus drainage.
b. Signs/Symptoms. Included are the following:
(1)
Nasal obstruction affecting one or both nostrils.
(2)
Increased nasal or postnasal mucus discharge.
(3)
Development of sinusitis due to inadequate sinus discharge.
(4)
Epistaxis (nosebleed) as a result of drying air currents.
c. Treatment. As treatment for this condition, refer the patient for septoplasty
(surgical resection of the septum) as urgency requires. In this operation, an incision is
made through the mucous membrane, and portions of the septum causing the
obstruction are removed.
MD0582
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