Straightening Out The Facts About Deviated Nasal Septum

The nasal septum is a wall of bone and cartilage that separates the two nostrils. A deviated nasal septum occurs when this wall is displaced to one side, making one nasal passage smaller than the other. This condition affects about 80% of people to some degree, but only a small percentage experience symptoms severe enough to require treatment. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for deviated nasal septum.

Causes:

The causes of a deviated nasal septum can be genetic or acquired. In many cases, the septum is deviated at birth or during fetal development. Other causes include:

1. Trauma to the nose: A broken nose or other facial injury can cause the septum to become displaced.

2. Developmental: The nasal septum may naturally shift as a person ages.

3. Chronic inflammation: Conditions such as sinusitis or allergic rhinitis can cause the nasal tissues to swell and push the septum to one side.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of a deviated nasal septum can vary depending on the degree of deviation. Some people may have no symptoms at all, while others may experience:

1. Difficulty in breathing through one nostril: The smaller nasal passage can make it harder to breathe through that side of the nose.

2. Recurrent sinus infections: A deviated septum can make it harder for mucus to drain from the sinuses, leading to recurrent infections.

3. Nosebleeds: The uneven surface of the septum can irritate the lining of the nose, leading to nosebleeds.

4. Facial pain: In some cases, a deviated septum can cause facial pain or headaches.

5. Snoring: DNS can cause snoring in some patients.

Treatment Options:

The treatment options for a deviated nasal septum depend on the severity of the symptoms. In mild cases, treatment may not be necessary. However, if symptoms are affecting the person's quality of life, the following treatment options may be recommended:

1. Medications: Over-the-counter decongestants can help to reduce nasal swelling and improve breathing. Nasal steroid sprays may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation.

2. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the deviation. This procedure, known as septoplasty, involves repositioning the septum to the center of the nose.

3. Allergy management: If allergies are contributing to the nasal swelling, allergy management strategies such as avoiding allergens or allergy shots may be recommended.

Conclusion:

A deviated nasal septum is a common condition that can cause difficulty breathing, recurrent sinus infections, nosebleeds, and facial pain. While not all cases require treatment, those with severe symptoms may benefit from medications, surgery, or allergy management strategies. If you are experiencing symptoms of a deviated nasal septum, talk to your ENT surgeon to discuss the best treatment options for you.