What is a deviated nasal septum?
Everyone has a nasal septum, which is a piece of cartilage covered in nasal tissue that divides or inner nose into two compartments. Most people have some amount of deviation to their nasal septum. However, this cartilage can be deviated or bent from birth, trauma or prior surgery, which may cause chronic nasal obstruction.
What are the causes of a deviated septum?
Deviated septums are very common and occur in up to 80% of the population. They are present from birth or can occur due to nasal trauma or surgery.
What are the signs and symptoms of a deviated septum?
Having a hard time breathing in through your nose (usually worse on one side) is one of the most common symptoms of a deviated septum. Other symptoms include:
- Decreased sense of smell
- Feeling that nose is “closed”
- Snoring
- Poor sleep
- Fatigue
- Trouble breathing with exertion or exercising
- Sinus symptoms
- Headaches
- Emotional distress
- Runny nose
- Nosebleeds
- Breathing from the mouth
- Dry mouth
- Dental problems
You may also experience nasal breathing symptoms that worsen with colds or allergies and awareness that nose can feel blocked on alternating sides.
How is a deviated nasal septum diagnosed?
A deviated nasal septum is diagnosed from a patient’s history and a good physical exam of the nose and sinus passages. Nasal endoscopy is a diagnostic tool used to get a clear and thorough visualization of the inner nose and structures. A CT scan is also very helpful in analyzing in detail the structures of the inner nose to determine the cause of the symptoms and is useful if a surgical solution will be considered.
What are the possible treatments for a deviated nasal septum?
Initial treatment is medical and includes the use of medicated nasal sprays to try and improve the obstruction. Allergies should also be fully treated. Nasal saline rinses can also be used to help keep the nasal passages clear.
If the medical treatment is not successful, then a CT scan can be performed to see if a septoplasty can provide a long-term solution for the problem.
Call Kamran Jafri, MD PC, today, or book an appointment online for an evaluation and treatment plan for your deviated septum.
