A deviated septum is a common condition where the thin wall dividing your nasal passages is off-center. Many people wonder if they can feel this internal misalignment with their fingers to self-diagnose. Understanding the structure of the nose and the nature of a deviated septum helps clarify why direct self-assessment by touch is generally not feasible or recommended.
Understanding the Nasal Septum
The nasal septum is a wall of bone and cartilage that separates the left and right sides of your nasal cavity. This structure provides support for the nose and plays a role in regulating airflow through both nostrils. The front part of the septum is flexible cartilage, while the back part consists of bone.
When the nasal septum is “deviated,” it means this wall is displaced or bent to one side, or sometimes even in an S-shape. This can result from uneven growth or injury. While many people have some degree of septal deviation, most experience no symptoms because the misalignment is minor.
The Challenges of Self-Assessment
Feeling a deviated septum with your finger is not possible or advisable for accurate diagnosis. The septum is located internally, extending several inches back towards the throat. While you might feel the very front edge, this superficial touch cannot accurately assess deeper structures or the extent of deviation further inside.
The internal nasal passages are delicate and covered by a mucous membrane. Inserting fingers can introduce bacteria, potentially leading to irritation, infection, or injury to sensitive tissues. Relying on self-touch for diagnosis also risks misinterpreting normal nasal anatomy or minor variations as a significant deviation, leading to unnecessary concern.
Observable Indicators of a Deviated Septum
A deviated septum is identified by observable symptoms it causes. The most common sign is difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils, worsening during colds or allergies. This occurs because the misaligned septum obstructs airflow, making one nasal passage smaller than the other.
Other indicators include frequent nosebleeds, which can happen if the deviated septum causes the nasal lining to dry out. Some individuals experience facial pain or pressure, especially if the deviation interferes with sinus drainage, leading to mucus buildup and sinus infections. Noisy breathing during sleep, such as snoring, or a preference for sleeping on a particular side to optimize airflow, also suggests a deviated septum.
When to Seek Medical Guidance
If you suspect a deviated septum based on persistent symptoms, consult a medical professional. An accurate diagnosis requires a physical examination by a healthcare provider, often an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. During this examination, the doctor uses specialized instruments, such as a nasal speculum or an endoscope, to view the internal nasal passages and septum. The medical professional will also inquire about your symptoms, their duration, and impact on daily life, including breathing difficulties, sleep disturbances, or frequent infections. This comprehensive assessment allows the doctor to determine the severity of any deviation and recommend appropriate management, ranging from symptom management with medications to surgical correction if necessary.