Deviated Septum: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of a deviated septum?

A deviated septum is a condition where the thin wall (nasal septum) between your nasal passages is displaced to one side. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

1. Nasal congestion: One of the most common symptoms is difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils, often feeling blocked or congested.
2. Nosebleeds: The abnormal airflow and dryness caused by a deviated septum can lead to frequent nosebleeds.
3. Facial pain: Some people experience facial pain, particularly in the area between the eyes, due to the pressure changes and inflammation caused by the deviated septum.
4. Noisy breathing: You may notice a whistle or other sounds when breathing, particularly when lying down.
5. Snoring: A deviated septum can contribute to snoring, especially when the airway is partially obstructed during sleep.
6. Sleep disturbances: Poor airflow can lead to disrupted sleep, including waking up frequently during the night or feeling unrested in the morning.
7. Recurrent sinus infections: The blocked airflow can increase the risk of developing sinus infections.
8. Headaches: Some people with a deviated septum experience headaches, often due to the increased pressure and inflammation in the nasal passages.
9. Postnasal drip: The deviated septum can disrupt normal mucus drainage, leading to a sensation of mucus dripping down the back of the throat.
10. Decreased sense of smell: A deviated septum can interfere with the airflow to the olfactory receptors, leading to a reduced ability to smell.

These symptoms can vary in severity depending on the degree of deviation in the septum. If you suspect you have a deviated septum or are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for an evaluation and appropriate management.

What are the causes of a deviated septum?

A deviated septum can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

1. Trauma: A deviated septum can result from a traumatic injury to the nose, such as a blow to the face or a sports injury. The septum may bend or become displaced during the injury, leading to deviation.
2. Congenital factors: Some people are born with a deviated septum, which may be due to abnormal growth or development of the nasal septum during fetal development.
3. Aging: The nasal septum can change shape and position over time, particularly as the cartilage becomes weaker and more prone to deformation.
4. Previous nasal surgery: Surgery on the nose, such as septoplasty or rhinoplasty, can sometimes result in a deviated septum if the surgery is not successful or if the septum shifts during the healing process.
5. Chronic nasal congestion: Long-term nasal congestion or inflammation can lead to changes in the nasal tissues, including the septum, which can result in deviation.
6. Genetic factors: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing a deviated septum, although the exact genetic factors are not well understood.
7. Environmental factors: Environmental factors such as pollution or irritants in the air can contribute to chronic nasal congestion and inflammation, which can in turn lead to deviation of the septum.

It’s important to note that a deviated septum can occur without any obvious cause and may be present from birth or develop over time. If you suspect you have a deviated septum or are experiencing symptoms related to nasal congestion or obstruction, it’s important to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for an evaluation and appropriate management.

What is the treatment for a deviated septum?

The treatment for a deviated septum depends on the severity of the deviation and the symptoms it causes. In many cases, treatment may not be necessary if the deviation does not cause significant symptoms. However, if the deviated septum is causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or recurrent sinus infections, treatment options may include:

1. Medications: Over-the-counter nasal decongestants or antihistamines may help reduce nasal congestion and improve airflow. Nasal steroid sprays can also help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
2. Septoplasty: Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to straighten the nasal septum and improve airflow. During the procedure, the deviated portion of the septum is removed or repositioned to straighten it. Septoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia and is often done on an outpatient basis.
3. Turbinoplasty: Turbinoplasty is a surgical procedure to reduce the size of the turbinates, which are structures inside the nose that can become swollen and contribute to nasal congestion. Turbinoplasty can be done alone or in combination with septoplasty to improve airflow.
4. Balloon sinuplasty: Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can help open blocked sinus passages and improve drainage. It may be recommended for people with a deviated septum who also have chronic sinusitis.
5. Nasal valve repair: If the nasal valve, which is the narrowest part of the nasal airway, is narrowed or collapsed due to a deviated septum, nasal valve repair surgery may be recommended to improve airflow.
6. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy: For people with sleep apnea related to a deviated septum, CPAP therapy may be recommended to help keep the airway open during sleep.
7. Allergy management: If allergies contribute to nasal congestion and inflammation, allergy management strategies such as avoiding allergens or taking allergy medications may help improve symptoms.

It’s important to discuss treatment options with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation. Treatment for a deviated septum is usually aimed at relieving symptoms and improving quality of life.

What happens if a deviated septum is not treated?

If a deviated septum is not causing significant symptoms or complications, it may not require treatment. Many people have a deviated septum without even realizing it, especially if it does not cause noticeable symptoms such as nasal congestion or difficulty breathing.

However, if a deviated septum is causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or recurrent sinus infections, it may lead to complications if left untreated. Some potential consequences of an untreated deviated septum may include:

1. Chronic nasal congestion: A deviated septum can obstruct airflow through the nasal passages, leading to chronic nasal congestion that can be bothersome and uncomfortable.
2. Sinus infections: A deviated septum can interfere with proper drainage of the sinuses, increasing the risk of recurrent sinus infections (sinusitis).
3. Nasal polyps: Chronic inflammation of the nasal passages due to a deviated septum can increase the risk of developing nasal polyps, which are noncancerous growths that can further obstruct the nasal passages.
4. Sleep disturbances: A deviated septum can contribute to sleep disturbances, including snoring and sleep apnea, which can lead to daytime fatigue and other health issues.
5. Facial pain and headaches: In some cases, a deviated septum can cause facial pain or headaches, particularly in the area between the eyes, due to the pressure changes and inflammation in the nasal passages.
6. Decreased quality of life: The symptoms of a deviated septum, such as nasal congestion and difficulty breathing, can significantly impact quality of life, leading to discomfort and difficulty performing daily activities.

If you are experiencing symptoms related to a deviated septum, it’s important to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for an evaluation and appropriate management. Treatment options are available to help relieve symptoms and improve airflow through the nasal passages.