Texan ENT Specialists - July 2021

TexanENT.com

512.550.0321

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UNDERSTANDING DEVIATED SEPTUMS WHY CAN’T I BREATHE THROUGH MY NOSE?

You’ve probably heard the term “deviated septum” before, but it may have gone over your head as fancy medical jargon. Simply speaking, your septum is the cartilage that creates a wall between your two nostrils. If that wall is crooked or has spurs that block breathing through either nostril, it’s considered deviated. How common are deviated septums? About 80% of people have a deviated septum, but in many cases, the septum is just a little bowed or there are only small spurs, which do not lead to negative consequences or affect our nasal cycle (breathing through the nose). However, major deviations that are either genetic or, commonly,

the result of a broken nose, can cause health issues, chronic sinus infections, or heavy snoring. People with deviated septums commonly have trouble breathing through one or both nostrils, which can also lead to quality of life issues. Is there a solution? Patients who are experiencing chronic nasal obstruction can try over-the-counter medications like FLONASE or Nasonex. However, if the obstruction lasts most or all of the time and does not improve with the use of these medications, you can talk to Dr. Evans about whether surgery to straighten your deviated septum (called septoplasty) is a good option for you.

It’s important to note that this surgery is often an elective, quality-of-life procedure, and depending on your health history, it may not be a good choice. Dr. Evans can help you assess whether you’re a good candidate for this procedure and if it will be safe for you. If you have underlying health issues, Dr. Evans will consult with your primary care doctor or cardiologist to help reduce the risk of potential problems. If you want to learn more about this procedure, you can visit TexanENT.com/ septoplasty or call 512-550-0321. We’re here to help you breathe easy.

HAVE A LAUGH

EASY ZUCCHINI ENCHILADAS

Inspired by Delish.com

This healthy summer dish is the perfect way to use up extra zucchini!

Ingredients

• • • • • •

1 tbsp olive oil

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3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded 1 1/3 cups red enchilada sauce, divided 4 large zucchini, sliced very thin lengthwise and dried

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tsp cumin

2 tsp chili powder

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2 cups shredded cheese

Salt, to taste

Sour cream and cilantro, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring for 5 minutes. 2. Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook for one minute, then add chicken and 1 cup enchilada sauce. Stir to combine. 3. On a cutting board, lay out three slices of zucchini side by side. Top each with a scoop of chicken mixture, then roll into a tube. Repeat with remaining zucchini slices. 4. Add the rolls to a baking dish. 5. Top the rolls with the remaining enchilada sauce and cheese. Bake for 20 minutes. Top with garnishes!

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