What is a deviated septum? The nasal septum is the wall of cartilage and bone that separates the right and left sides of the nose. A deviated septum means this wall is off-centre or irregular. Mild deviation is common and may cause no symptoms. Problems occur when the deviation significantly reduces airflow or affects sinus drainage.
Symptoms Possible symptoms include difficulty breathing through one or both sides of the nose, persistent one-sided blockage, mouth breathing, nosebleeds, disturbed sleep, snoring and reduced exercise tolerance. A deviated septum may coexist with allergy, enlarged turbinates, nasal valve narrowing or sinus disease.
Causes Deviation may be present from birth, develop as the face grows or result from injury. A previous nasal fracture is not required; many people have a deviation without remembering any trauma.
Diagnosis Diagnosis is based on symptoms and examination of the inside and outside of the nose. Nasal endoscopy may be used when deeper structures need to be assessed. A CT scan is not routinely needed for a simple septal deviation unless there are additional concerns such as chronic sinus disease.
Treatment A nasal spray cannot physically straighten the septum. However, prescribed treatment may reduce swelling from allergy or enlarged turbinates and improve breathing enough that surgery is unnecessary. Saline rinses and allergy management may also help selected patients.
When is surgery considered? Septoplasty may be discussed when structural blockage causes persistent breathing difficulty, sleep problems, recurrent nosebleeds or reduced quality of life despite appropriate medical treatment. The decision should be based on symptoms and examination, not on appearance alone.
Can it affect the outer shape of the nose? A septal deviation may occur with an external nasal deformity, but septoplasty alone mainly treats the internal septum. When both breathing and appearance need correction, septorhinoplasty may be considered.
This article is for general education and does not replace an individual medical assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every deviated septum need surgery?
No. Surgery is considered only when symptoms are significant and conservative treatment is insufficient.
Can nasal sprays straighten the septum?
No, but they may reduce surrounding swelling and improve airflow.
Can a deviated septum cause snoring?
It can contribute to snoring, but snoring may have several causes.
Is a CT scan always required?
No. Examination is usually enough unless other sinus or structural problems are suspected.
What is the difference between septoplasty and rhinoplasty?
Septoplasty corrects the internal septum, while rhinoplasty changes the outer shape; both may sometimes be combined.
This information is for education only and does not replace medical assessment or treatment by a qualified physician.