Deviated Septum
A deviated septum occurs when the wall between the nasal passages is off-center, which can restrict airflow and make breathing through the nose difficult. Some people are born with it, while others develop it after injury.
Quick Facts
- Can be present at birth or caused by trauma
- May affect airflow through the nose
- Can contribute to chronic congestion or sinus infections
- Symptoms vary from mild to severe
- Surgery may be considered if symptoms persist
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils
- Difficulty breathing while sleeping
- Nasal congestion
- Frequent sinus infections
Some people may also experience nosebleeds, snoring, or sleep disturbances. A deviated septum can sometimes be confused with allergies or chronic sinus issues.
Causes
A deviated septum can result from:
- Congenital structural differences
- Injury to the nose
- Age-related changes in nasal structure
Risk Factors
You may be at higher risk if you:
- Have had a nasal injury
- Participate in contact sports
- Have chronic nasal inflammation
- Have untreated allergies
Treatments
Treatment depends on how severe symptoms are.
Mild cases may improve with medications such as nasal sprays or decongestants to reduce inflammation.
If symptoms significantly affect breathing or quality of life, a surgical procedure called septoplasty may be recommended to correct the septum.
When to Seek Care
See a provider if you have persistent nasal obstruction, frequent sinus infections, or symptoms that interfere with sleep or breathing. A primary care provider may recommend to a specialist such as otolaryngologist (ENT) or facial cosmetic surgeon.
