Deviated Nasal Septum

A deviated nasal septum is a medical condition where the thin wall of cartilage and bone that separates the two sides of the nasal passages, known as the nasal septum, is displaced or crooked. This can cause one nasal passage to be smaller than the other, leading to breathing difficulties and other respiratory problems.

Causes

A deviated nasal septum can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Genetic predisposition: Some people may be born with a deviated nasal septum.
• Injury or trauma: A blow to the nose can cause the nasal septum to become deviated.
• Developmental issues: The nasal septum may not develop properly during childhood or adolescence, leading to a deviated septum.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a deviated nasal septum can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Nasal congestion: One side of the nose may be more congested than the other, making it difficult to breathe.
• Noisy breathing: The deviation in the nasal septum can cause noisy breathing, especially at night.
• Nosebleeds: The dry air and increased pressure on one side of the nose can cause nosebleeds.
• Postnasal drip: Mucus may build up on one side of the nose, leading to a sensation of postnasal drip.
• Sinus infections: A deviated nasal septum can increase the risk of sinus infections.

Diagnosis

A deviated nasal septum is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and medical history. The doctor may use a nasal speculum to examine the nasal passages and look for any deviations in the nasal septum. In some cases, additional tests such as a CT scan or MRI may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for a deviated nasal septum depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms. Conservative treatments may include:

• Nasal decongestants: To help reduce congestion and improve breathing.
• Nasal saline irrigations: To moisturize the nasal passages and promote healing.
• Nasal strips: To help open up the nasal passages and improve breathing.

In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the deviated nasal septum. The most common surgical procedure is a septoplasty, which involves:

• Removing any blockages or debris from the nasal passages.
• Repositioning the nasal septum to its normal position.
• Trimming or removing any excess tissue that may be contributing to the deviation.

Complications

If left untreated, a deviated nasal septum can lead to complications such as:

• Chronic sinus infections: The increased risk of sinus infections can lead to chronic inflammation and infection.
• Nasal polyps: The chronic inflammation can cause the growth of nasal polyps, which can further obstruct breathing.
• Sleep apnea: The deviation in the nasal septum can contribute to sleep apnea, a condition where breathing is interrupted during sleep.