A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall separating the two nostrils is bent or uneven. Ideally, this wall, known as the septum, should be centered to allow balanced airflow between both nasal passages. When it’s deviated, it typically leans to one side, which can block airflow in one or both nostrils. While this often leads to breathing difficulties, some people might not experience any symptoms at all.
Almost everyone has some degree of a deviated septum. Some people are born with it, while others might develop one following an injury, like a broken nose. The symptoms can vary greatly. For mild cases, people might not notice anything wrong, but for others, a more crooked septum can cause noticeable issues. Common symptoms include nasal obstruction and difficulty breathing, among others.
Deviated septum can also arise without any prior injury, indicating it might be hereditary, much like eye color or facial shape. Sometimes, this condition develops during fetal development or due to trauma during childbirth. Other factors can also increase the risk of a deviated septum.
Doctors, particularly ear, nose, and throat specialists, can diagnose a deviated septum by visually inspecting the nose. In some cases, additional procedures might be necessary to confirm the condition. For mild deviations, treatment generally focuses on relieving congestion using remedies like saline sprays. However, more severe cases might require surgical intervention, specifically a procedure called septoplasty. This surgical approach adjusts the cartilage and bones of the septum to restore proper airflow through the nose.
Septoplasty is usually very effective, with studies showing up to 85% of patients experiencing symptom relief after recovery. While it’s not always possible to prevent a deviated septum, especially if it’s congenital or due to an unforeseen injury, avoiding situations that might lead to nasal trauma can reduce the risk of developing one.
Most people with a mild deviated septum don’t need extensive treatment, but letting severe deviations go untreated can lead to further complications, such as chronic sinus issues, headaches, or sleep problems. Managing symptoms might involve medications like antihistamines or nasal sprays, and humidifiers can help too, especially in dry environments.
In more serious cases where your quality of life is affected, surgery might be the best option. This can significantly improve your breathing and alleviate related symptoms. Working closely with a healthcare provider will help determine the most suitable treatment for your situation. As we age, changes in nasal tissues might worsen symptoms of a deviated septum, leading to increased dryness and other issues. However, with the right approach, most people can manage these symptoms quite effectively.
