A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall dividing the nasal passages is displaced, making one side of the nose smaller. This common anatomical variation can affect breathing and nasal function. This article explores if a deviated septum worsens over time, its common symptoms, and management options.
Understanding a Deviated Septum
The nasal septum is the bone and cartilage structure separating the right and left sides of the nasal cavity. In many individuals, this wall is off-center or crooked, a condition known as a deviated septum. Up to 80% of the population has some degree of nasal septum deviation.
A deviated septum can be present at birth, often from fetal development or childbirth injuries. It can also develop later in life due to nasal trauma, such as from sports injuries, car accidents, or falls. Minor injuries can cause the septum to shift.
Does the Condition Worsen?
While the physical deviation of the nasal septum typically does not significantly worsen in adulthood, its symptoms can become more noticeable over time. Nasal structures undergo changes with age. Cartilage can soften or weaken, and skin may lose elasticity, potentially narrowing nasal passages and impacting an existing deviated septum.
Factors beyond physical changes also contribute to a perceived worsening of symptoms. Allergies or increased inflammation from recurrent sinus infections can cause nasal passages to swell, exacerbating airflow obstruction. While the underlying anatomical deviation remains stable, external factors and aging can make existing symptoms more pronounced or trigger new ones.
Common Symptoms and Complications
A deviated septum can lead to various symptoms, with nasal obstruction being common, causing difficulty breathing. This obstruction worsens during colds or allergic reactions when nasal passages swell. Individuals may also experience frequent nosebleeds, as reduced airflow dries the septum’s surface, making it prone to bleeding.
Other symptoms include facial pain or pressure, sometimes manifesting as headaches. Noisy breathing during sleep, snoring, and a preference for sleeping on one side are also reported. If unaddressed, a severely deviated septum can lead to chronic sinus infections due to impaired mucus drainage, and sleep disturbances like obstructive sleep apnea.
Management and Treatment Approaches
Managing a deviated septum often begins with non-surgical approaches to relieve symptoms. Options include nasal decongestants, corticosteroid nasal sprays, and antihistamines for congestion. Nasal saline irrigation can also help clear mucus and allergens. While these methods offer temporary relief, they do not correct the underlying anatomical deviation.
When symptoms are severe or significantly impact quality of life, surgical correction, known as septoplasty, may be recommended. Septoplasty straightens the nasal septum and improves airflow. During surgery, a surgeon reshapes, repositions, or removes portions of bone and cartilage to center the septum. Septoplasty is typically an outpatient procedure, with most individuals returning home the same day. Consulting a medical professional is important to determine the most suitable treatment.