Have you ever felt like one side of your nose is more congested than the other? This often becomes particularly noticeable when you have a cold. For some, this is a constant, persistent issue. In many cases, the culprit is what we are discussing today: a structural deviation of the nasal passage known as a 'Deviated Septum.' Let’s look at what this really is, why it happens, and what you can do about it.
What is a Deviated Septum?
Simply put, there is a wall that separates your two nostrils. This partition is made of cartilage and bone. We call this the nasal septum. When this wall is perfectly centered, both nasal cavities are symmetrical, allowing air to flow in and out freely through both sides.
Interestingly, about eight out of every ten people have a slightly deviated septum. However, most people are unaware of it because it causes no significant issues or symptoms.
The problem arises when the deviation is significant, narrowing one of the nasal passages. This can make breathing through that side difficult and may lead to other issues, such as frequent nosebleeds.
What are the Symptoms?
If the septum is severely deviated, you might even notice a visible crookedness in your nose. If it isn't obvious when looking in the mirror, try taking a photo looking up at your nose from below. If your nostrils appear asymmetrical—with one looking larger than the other—you may have this condition.
Below are some common symptoms caused by this deviation.
| Symptom | Simple Explanation |
|---|---|
| Difficulty breathing through nostrils | A persistent feeling of congestion in one side. This is often exacerbated by colds or sinus issues. |
| Frequent Nosebleeds | The nasal passage can become dry and irritated, leading to frequent nosebleeds. |
| Facial pain and headaches | Obstruction can cause pressure in the sinuses, leading to discomfort or headaches. |
| Snoring and noisy breathing | Because it is difficult to breathe through the nose while sleeping, you may end up mouth-breathing and snoring. |
| Reduced sense of smell | Irregular airflow through the nose can impair your ability to detect smells. |
A simple test you can try at home
While this is not as accurate as a clinical examination, it can give you a general idea.
1. Close one nostril with your finger.
2. Take a deep breath through the other nostril. Observe how easily or with how much difficulty the air flows.
3. Now, repeat the process with the other side.
4. If one side is significantly harder to breathe through than the other, you might have a deviated septum.
Remember, this is just for awareness. For an accurate diagnosis, you must consult a healthcare professional.
What causes a Deviated Septum?
There are two primary causes:
- Congenital (at birth): For many, this condition is present from birth. It can sometimes result from pressure during delivery or occur as the nose grows unevenly during childhood development. This is the most common cause.
- Injury: Trauma to the nose can cause the septum to shift or buckle. Think of injuries sustained from sports (like a ball hitting the nose), physical altercations, vehicle accidents, or childhood falls that caused injuries.
Additionally, the regular inhalation of nasal drugs can also damage the nasal septum and contribute to this condition.
What are the potential complications?
A minor deviation usually causes no harm, but if the deviation is severe, it can lead to further health complications.
- Chronic Sinusitis: Obstruction of nasal passages can prevent mucus from draining properly, leading to recurring sinus infections.
- Dry mouth: Because you cannot breathe effectively through your nose, you may habitually mouth-breathe, causing chronic dryness in your mouth and throat.
- Sleep disturbances and Sleep Apnea: Difficulty breathing during sleep can cause restless nights. In severe cases, it can progress to sleep apnea, where breathing stops momentarily during sleep.
- Ear infections in children: Since the nose and ears are connected, chronic nasal congestion in children can increase the risk of frequent ear infections.
How does a doctor diagnose this?
When you visit a doctor, they will first ask about your symptoms and then perform a physical examination. They will use a small tool called a 'nasal speculum' to gently open your nostrils, allowing them to clearly inspect the internal wall. This helps them determine the degree of deviation and how much the nasal passage is narrowed.
If a more detailed examination is required, your doctor may refer you for additional tests:
- Nasal Endoscopy: A procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into your nose, allowing us to inspect your nasal cavity and septum in detail.
- CT Scan: This provides clear cross-sectional images of your nose and surrounding sinuses, helping us deeply understand your internal nasal structure.
What are the treatment options?
First and foremost, many people with a deviated septum do not require any treatment at all because they experience no significant symptoms. However, if your symptoms are disrupting your daily life, there are effective treatments available.
Medical Management
If your symptoms are mild or occasional, medications can provide relief. These are particularly helpful if you notice increased congestion during a cold.
- Antihistamines: These help control nasal congestion and runny nose caused by allergies.
- Nasal steroid sprays: These reduce inflammation inside your nose, making it much easier to breathe.
- Nasal decongestants: Available as sprays or tablets, these provide quick relief. However, do not use decongestant nasal sprays for more than three consecutive days. Overuse can lead to a condition called `rebound congestion`, where your nasal blockage becomes even worse once you stop the medication.
Can surgery fix this permanently?
Yes. The only permanent solution to correct a deviated septum is a surgical procedure known as Septoplasty. Your doctor may recommend this if you are experiencing severe breathing difficulties or sleep disturbances that cannot be managed with medication.
During this procedure, a small incision is made inside the nose to remove or reshape the bent cartilage and bone to straighten the septum.
If you are also concerned about the external appearance of your nose, you may choose to have a Rhinoplasty performed simultaneously with your Septoplasty to refine the shape.
If a child requires this surgery, doctors generally prefer to wait until the nasal development is complete, usually around age 15 to 16.
When should you see a doctor?
If your symptoms are hindering your ability to breathe, affecting your sleep, or interfering with your daily routines, please consult your doctor at Nirogi Lanka.
If you suspect your nose is broken due to an injury, please head to the nearest Emergency Department immediately.
Common questions
Can I straighten my nose by pressing on it?
No. Never attempt to straighten your nose by applying pressure or force. This will only cause further damage. If you have suffered an injury, seek medical attention at an Emergency Department immediately.
Can this condition worsen with age?
Yes, it can. As we age, our bodies undergo changes, including the cartilage in our nose. A minor deviation that was barely noticeable when you were younger may become more pronounced over time.
Take-Home Message
- For most people, a minor deviation in the septum causes no symptoms or issues at all.
- Be mindful if you experience persistent breathing difficulties, frequent nosebleeds, snoring, or facial pain.
- If symptoms disrupt your quality of life, talk to your doctor.
- Mild symptoms can often be managed effectively with medications and nasal sprays.
- Septoplasty is the gold-standard, permanent solution for correcting a deviated septum.
Deviated Septum, nasal deviation, breathing difficulty, Septoplasty, nasal surgery, nosebleeds
