👃 Deviated Nasal Septum
A deviated septum occurs when the nasal septum — the thin wall of cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils — is displaced to one side, either partially or completely. This condition can be present at birth, develop during growth, or result from trauma or injury.
📌 Key Facts
The nasal septum should ideally run down the center of the nose.
More than 80% of people have some degree of septal deviation — but only severe deviations cause symptoms.
A significantly deviated septum can block airflow, leading to nasal obstruction, breathing difficulty, and sinus issues.
⚠️ Causes of a Deviated Septum
Congenital (present at birth)
Nasal trauma (e.g., sports injury, car accident, fall)
Childbirth-related injury (rare)
Age-related changes in nasal structure
🤧 Symptoms
One-sided nasal obstruction (most common)
Difficulty breathing through the nose
Frequent sinus infections
Nosebleeds
Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
Facial pain or headaches
Postnasal drip
Mouth breathing, especially at night
Decreased sense of smell
Symptoms may worsen during a cold, allergy flare, or dry weather.
🧪 Diagnosis
Physical exam and nasal endoscopy by an ENT specialist
CT scan (if sinus involvement or surgery is planned)
💊 Treatment Options
🩺 Non-Surgical Management
(Helps manage symptoms, but does not correct the deviation)
Decongestants – reduce swelling in nasal tissues
Antihistamines – manage allergies
Nasal corticosteroids – reduce inflammation
Saline nasal sprays or rinses – keep nasal passages moist and clear
🛠️ Surgical Treatment: Septoplasty
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to straighten the septum.
Done under local or general anesthesia
Often performed endoscopically (minimally invasive)
May be combined with turbinate reduction or rhinoplasty (cosmetic reshaping of the nose)
⛔ Risks if Untreated (in moderate to severe cases)
Chronic nasal congestion
Recurring sinus infections
Poor sleep quality or sleep apnea
Reduced quality of life
✅ Recovery After Septoplasty
Most patients return to normal activities in 1–2 weeks
Avoid strenuous activity and nose blowing during early healing
Temporary swelling or nasal congestion is common
🧠 Quick Tip:
If you have one-sided nasal blockage that doesn’t improve with medication or recurs often, it’s worth having your septum evaluated.