A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall of cartilage and bone that separates your nostrils shifts to one side, making breathing difficult. This condition can occur naturally or develop over time, often due to injury or trauma. While some people may not notice any symptoms, others can experience significant discomfort.
In this article, we’ll discuss the signs of a deviated septum and the effective treatments available to improve your breathing and overall quality of life.
Signs you may have a deviated septum
Many people unknowingly live with a deviated septum. In fact, an estimated 80% of adults have some degree of septal misalignment. However, if the deviation is severe enough, it can interfere with breathing and cause other issues. Here are some common symptoms that may indicate you have a deviated septum:
- Chronic Nasal Congestion: One side of your nose may feel consistently blocked, especially when lying down.
- Difficulty Breathing Through Your Nose: This issue can worsen during physical activity or at night.
- Frequent Sinus Infections: A misaligned septum can prevent mucus from draining properly, leading to recurring sinus infections.
- Headaches and Facial Pain: Chronic sinus congestion often results in discomfort and pressure in the forehead, cheeks, and nose.
- Snoring or Sleep Apnea: Difficulty breathing through the nose may lead to snoring or worsen conditions like sleep apnea.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with an ENT specialist to discuss treatment options.
How a deviated septum affects your health
If left untreated, a deviated septum can have more than just an impact on your breathing. It may also cause long-term health issues such as:
- Poor Sleep Quality: Chronic nasal congestion can disrupt your sleep, leading to fatigue and decreased cognitive function during the day.
- Increased Risk of Sinus Infections: Without proper airflow, mucus may become trapped, leading to recurrent sinus infections and discomfort.
- Exacerbated Allergies or Asthma: A deviated septum can make breathing more difficult and worsen allergy or asthma symptoms by blocking airflow.
By addressing a deviated septum, you can prevent these complications and experience better overall health.
Managing a deviated septum: options for relief
Fortunately, there are several treatment options available, depending on the severity of your symptoms. For mild cases, non-surgical treatments may be sufficient to manage symptoms and improve airflow:
- Medications: Over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal decongestants, and steroid sprays can help reduce inflammation and open up blocked nasal passages.
- Saline Irrigation: Rinsing your nasal passages with a saline solution can help clear out mucus, reduce congestion, and provide temporary relief.
- Humidifiers: Using a humidifier in your home can prevent your nasal passages from drying out, which may reduce irritation and congestion.
While these treatments are effective for managing symptoms, they don’t fix the underlying structural issue of a deviated septum. If symptoms persist and significantly impact your quality of life, surgical options may be necessary.
Surgical treatment: septoplasty for long-term relief
For patients whose symptoms are not relieved by medications or lifestyle changes, septoplasty may be recommended. This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that reshapes or removes parts of the septum to improve airflow.
The surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia and usually takes about an hour to complete. Most patients experience significant relief from symptoms such as nasal congestion, sinus infections, and difficulty breathing following the procedure. Recovery is typically quick, with many patients returning to normal activities within a few days.
When to see an ENT specialist
If you’re struggling with symptoms of a deviated septum, such as chronic nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, or frequent sinus infections, it’s time to consult an ENT specialist. An expert will assess your condition and discuss the most appropriate treatment options for you, including both non-surgical and surgical interventions.
Find an ENT specialist in your area to explore treatment options right for you.
