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I had 3 nasal surgeries in the past. Is it safe for me to take nasal Coronavirus test?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have had three nose and septum surgeries, and my septum is deviated. My workplace wants me to do the nasal Coronavirus test as I recently came back from overseas. I am already on day 10 of Quarantine but they want to do the test.

Is there any risk for me to do this tes,t considering the previous surgeries? Can they force me to do the test? Do they need me to consent to the procedure? Can I request to finish my quarantine instead of testing? Or is there any other test that is less invasive?

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Prathish Kumar

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prathish Kumar is a General Physician specializing in Diabetology and Pulmonology who completed his MD in General Medicine at Srimanta Sankaradeva University of Health Sciences. He has 12 years of clinical experience and currently practicing in Dr. Prathish's clinic, Kundrathur, Chennai. At present, he also works as a consultant to treat COVID-19 pneumonia at different hospitals.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I see that you are concerned about previous surgeries. Nasopharyngeal swab for Coronavirus is a very simple test, just like how you use your ear buds. So nèed not worry, it can be done even if you have a deviated septum.

During this pandemic season, it is recommended by world health officials that you get tested before joining your work if you have traveled overseas, and 14 days quarantine is also recommended by the World Health Organization. No other test is as invasive and highly yielding as a nasopharyngeal swab test.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Vinodhini J.
Published At May 27, 2020
Reviewed At January 20, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prathish Kumar is a General Physician specializing in Diabetology and Pulmonology who completed his MD in General Medicine at Srimanta Sankaradeva University of Health Sciences. He has 12 years of clinical experience and currently practicing in Dr. Prathish's clinic, Kundrathur, Chennai. At present, he also works as a consultant to treat COVID-19 pneumonia at different hospitals.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vinodhini J. is a Dental Surgeon with extensive years of clinical experience. She specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and oral health issues, including restorative, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. With a patient-centered approach, she focuses on maintaining oral health, alleviating discomfort, and enhancing smiles. Her expertise ensures comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s dental needs and overall wellbeing.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prathish Kumar is a General Physician specializing in Diabetology and Pulmonology who completed his MD in General Medicine at Srimanta Sankaradeva University of Health Sciences. He has 12 years of clinical experience and currently practicing in Dr. Prathish's clinic, Kundrathur, Chennai. At present, he also works as a consultant to treat COVID-19 pneumonia at different hospitals.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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