Overview
A deviated nasal septum occurs when the thin wall (nasal septum) between your nasal passages is displaced to one side. In many people, the nasal septum is off-center, making one nasal passage smaller than the other.
Common symptoms
- Obstruction of one or both nostrils, making it difficult to breathe
- Nosebleeds: The surface of the septum may become dry, increasing the risk
- Facial pain: A severely deviated septum can cause pressure on the inner nasal wall
- Noisy breathing during sleep (snoring) in children and adults
- Preference for sleeping on a particular side to optimize breathing through the nose
When to see an ENT
- A blocked nostril (or nostrils) that doesn't respond to treatment
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Recurrent sinus infections
- Chronic dry mouth due to mouth breathing
What we do
- External examination of the nose and its internal structure
- Nasal endoscopy to see the extent of the deviation and rule out other issues like polyps or turbinate hypertrophy
- Assessment of how the deviation affects your breathing and quality of life
Treatment options
- Nasal decongestants and antihistamines to manage symptoms of swelling
- Nasal steroid sprays to reduce mucosal inflammation
- Septoplasty: A surgical procedure to straighten the septum and improve airflow
- Turbinate reduction: Often performed with septoplasty to further open the nasal passages