Your nose does more than help you breathe. It filters air, manages humidity, and supports your sense of smell. At the center of it all is the nasal septum, a thin wall made of cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils. When the septum is straight, airflow is balanced. But when it shifts off-center, a condition known as a deviated septum, it can lead to significant discomfort and health issues.
What is a deviated septum?
A deviated septum develops when the nasal septum is not even one side, narrowing one of the nasal passages. Some individuals are born with this condition, whereas others develop it after an injury or trauma to the nose. Typically, the deviation may be minor and go unnoticed. But when the shift is more pronounced, it can interfere with breathing and sinus drainage, causing long-term symptoms.
Common causes of a deviated septum include:
- Birth defects
- Injury during contact sports or accidents
- Previous nasal surgeries
Left untreated, this structural issue can contribute to chronic nasal problems, including repeated infections and difficulty sleeping.
Common signs you may have a deviated septum
Not everyone with a deviated septum experiences issues. However, when signs do appear, they often include:
- Persistent Nasal Congestion: If one side of your nose always feels blocked, especially when lying down or during allergy season, a deviated septum may be the cause.
- Frequent Nosebleeds: The uneven airflow can dry out your nasal lining, making it more prone to bleeding.
- Recurring Sinus Infections: Impaired sinus drainage can trap mucus and bacteria, leading to infections that return regularly.
- Headaches and Facial Pressure: The disruption in airflow may cause pressure to build in your sinuses, contributing to headaches or discomfort around your eyes, forehead, or cheeks.
- Postnasal Drip: Mucus that can’t drain properly may drip down the back of your throat, causing frequent throat clearing or coughing.
- Snoring and Sleep Disturbance: A narrowed nasal passage can lead to loud breathing, snoring, or even obstructive sleep apnea.
- Noisy or Difficult Breathing: This may become more apparent during physical exertion or sleep.
- Reduced Sense of Smell: Changes in airflow and chronic congestion can affect your ability to detect odors.
Diagnosing a deviated septum
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms consistently, it’s time to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Your ENT will start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and any past nasal injuries.
A physical examination is usually the first step. Using a nasal speculum and light source, your provider will examine the inside of your nose to look for abnormalities in the septum’s alignment.
To confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions, your ENT may recommend:
- Nasal Endoscopy: A thin tube with a camera provides a detailed view of your nasal passages and septum.
- Imaging (CT or MRI): These scans offer clear visuals of your nasal structures, helping identify deviations or sinus blockages.
- Allergy Testing: Since allergies can mimic similar symptoms, ruling them out ensures the correct diagnosis.
How a deviated septum can be corrected
Fortunately, there are several ways to manage or repair a deviated septum, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
Non-surgical treatments
- Nasal Decongestants or Corticosteroid Sprays: These reduce inflammation, making it easier to breathe, but don’t fix the structural issue.
- Nasal Strips: Often used during sleep to improve airflow temporarily.
- Allergy Control: Managing underlying allergies can relieve symptoms caused by nasal inflammation.
Surgical treatments
- Septoplasty: A surgical procedure that repositions and straightens the septum to restore proper airflow.
- Rhinoplasty (if needed): Often performed alongside septoplasty to improve nasal appearance or correct structural damage.
- Turbinate Reduction: Enlarged turbinates (tissue structures inside the nose) may be reduced to enhance airflow.
When to see an ENT specialist
A deviated septum is not just an inconvenience, it can have a serious impact on your health and quality of life. If you’re dealing with persistent nasal issues, don’t wait for them to worsen.
Finding an ENT specialist in your area is the first step toward breathing easier and finding lasting relief.