A deviated septum occurs when the nasal septum, the wall between your nasal passages, is displaced from its central position. This anatomical variation can make one nasal air passage smaller than the other. While often associated with conditions present from birth, a deviated septum can also develop or become more pronounced later in life.
Understanding Deviated Septum Development
A deviated septum can be congenital, meaning it’s present at birth due to fetal development or childbirth pressures. Acquired deviations develop over an individual’s lifetime, often appearing or worsening in adulthood. While a slight deviation is common and causes no problems, acquired forms can significantly impact nasal function. These later-life changes result from external factors or natural physiological processes.
Causes of Adult-Onset Deviated Septum
Various factors can lead to a deviated septum developing or worsening in adulthood. Trauma or injury to the nose is a common cause, including nasal fractures from contact sports, car accidents, or falls. Untreated impacts can gradually shift the septum out of alignment. Injury-related deviations often present with an irregular shape and may involve dislocated or fractured cartilage.
The natural aging process also contributes to septal changes. As people age, the cartilage and bone structures within the nose undergo alterations, leading to stiffening and shifting. This can cause a previously mild deviation to become more pronounced over time.
Chronic inflammation or recurrent infections can exacerbate an existing mild deviation. Swelling and irritation within the nasal cavities can further narrow the nasal passage, intensifying the effects. Complications following previous nasal surgery, such as rhinoplasty, can also result in a deviated septum.
Recognizing Symptoms
A deviated septum can cause various symptoms. Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils is common, often worsening during colds or allergies. This nasal obstruction can be more noticeable on one side or alternate between nostrils.
Other signs include frequent nosebleeds, which occur due to a dry septal surface. Some individuals report facial pain or pressure from the septum’s misalignment. Loud breathing or snoring during sleep is another indicator, as a deviated septum can obstruct airflow. Recurrent sinus infections can also arise due to impaired drainage pathways.
When to Seek Medical Advice and Treatment
If you experience persistent nasal obstruction, frequent nosebleeds, or recurrent sinus infections, consult a healthcare professional. An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can accurately diagnose a deviated septum through a physical examination, which may involve using a lighted instrument or a nasal endoscope.
Treatment approaches vary based on symptom severity. For mild symptoms, conservative management may be recommended, including nasal sprays, decongestants, or antihistamines. These medications help manage symptoms but do not correct the underlying issue. If symptoms significantly affect quality of life and conservative measures are insufficient, surgical correction, known as septoplasty, may be an option. During septoplasty, a surgeon reshapes or repositions the septum to improve airflow.