A deviated septum occurs when the septum, or wall dividing the nasal cavity into two sections, becomes misaligned. The ideal septum is set exactly in the center of the nasal cavity, creating two equal nasal passages. Researchers at the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery report that nearly 80 percent of all septums are deviated to some degree.
Causes
There are a number of causes for a displaced septum, report doctors at the Mayo Clinic. Babies born with a deviated septum develop the condition during development in the womb. More commonly, a deviated symptom results from an accident or injury to the nose. It can happen during the birth process or any kind of trauma during childhood or adulthood. Falls, collisions, impacts during fights or sports and car accidents commonly cause the septum to move.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of a deviated septum is difficulty breathing through one side of the nose, typically the side opposite the bend in the septum. Sinus infections are common in people with a deviated septum because the bent septum interferes with drainage. Other common symptoms include frequent nosebleeds, congestion, facial pain and noisy breathing while sleeping.
Diagnosis
In addition to recognizing the common symptoms, a physician can easily diagnose a deviated septum by looking into the nasal cavity and spreading the nostrils with an instrument called a nasal speculum. The doctor will typically ask about any recent traumas to verify the diagnosis. Most often, a specialist such as an ear, nose and throat doctor treats a deviated septum.
Medical Treatment
Often, a deviated septum is treated with medication to manage the symptoms. Decongestants can help to clear nasal passages and keep them clear. Antihistamines dry up the sinuses and prevent a runny nose. It is important for people with a deviated septum to avoid runny sinuses because trapped mucus can lead to infections and cause additional discomfort. Prescription cortisone sprays can help to reduce inflammation and prevent infections.
Surgery
Septoplasty is a surgery designed to repair a deviated septum. After cutting small pieces of the septum to make it fit better in the nasal cavity, the septum is repositioned during a septoplasty procedure. In more serious cases, cosmetic surgery to repair a misshapen is nose is required. Rhinoplasty is a procedure on the nose that readjusts the shape and size of the cartilage.
