Deviated Septum

What is a Deviated Septum?

A deviated septum occurs when the nasal septum, the structure that divides the nasal cavity into two nostrils, is displaced or crooked. This can occur due to several factors:

Congenital Factors: In many cases, a deviated septum is present at birth. During fetal development, the nasal septum may not form symmetrically or may develop irregularly, leading to a crooked septum. This type of deviation can be mild or severe.

Trauma or Injury: A deviated septum can also result from an injury to the nose, such as from a fall, car accident, sports injury, or any kind of direct trauma to the face. Even if the injury heals, the septum may remain displaced, causing the deviation.

Age-Related Changes: As people age, the cartilage and bones in the nose can weaken or shift. This can gradually lead to a deviation of the septum, especially if there were pre-existing irregularities.

Developmental Factors: Sometimes, the septum can become deviated as the nasal structures grow at different rates. This can cause the septum to bend or twist as a person develops.

A deviated septum can cause a variety of symptoms, such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils, snoring, or recurrent sinus infections. In more severe cases, surgery (like septoplasty) may be needed to correct the deviation and improve airflow.

Symptoms

• Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils
• Frequent nasal congestion
• Recurrent sinus infections
• Nosebleeds
• Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
• Facial pain or headaches

Treatment Options

• Medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, or nasal sprays for symptom relief
• Septoplasty (surgical correction for severe cases)
• Using a humidifier to ease nasal congestion
• Saline nasal irrigation