What is a deviated septum?
A deviated septum is when the wall that separates your nasal passages (nasal septum) isn’t straight. It’s off-center (deviated), which makes one nasal passage smaller than the other. This deviation can cause difficulty breathing and crusting or bleeding in your nose.
Having a deviated septum is common. Approximately 80 percent of people have this condition. Some people don’t even know they have a deviated septum, while others may experience severe symptoms.
Rhinology at Penn Medicine is home to nasal and spinal specialists that are highly trained in treating deviated septum. We understand that severe symptoms can disrupt your life. Our experts conduct a comprehensive assessment of your condition and create a treatment plan to relieve your symptoms so you can breathe easier.
Symptoms of a deviated septum
Deviated septum symptoms may vary depending on the person and how badly their nasal septum is off-center. Possible signs and symptoms include:
- Difficulty breathing through one nostril or both
- Facial pain
- Mouth breathing
- Noisy breathing, especially during sleep
- Nosebleeds
- Sinus infections (sinusitis)
- Sleep apnea
- Snoring
What causes a deviated septum?
You may be born with a deviated septum. It can occur as the fetus develops or during delivery. Sometimes, a deviated septum can worsen as you age.
Another potential cause of a deviated septum is injury or trauma to the nose. For example, your nose could be injured in a car accident, fight, or collision during contact sports.
Diagnosing a deviated septum
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and take your health history. Then, they’ll perform a physical exam using a nasal speculum, nasal endoscope, or otoscope to look inside your nose.
Your doctor can usually make a diagnosis based on your physical exam. But in some cases, they may order a CT scan of your nose and sinuses to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for a deviated septum
Treatment varies depending on the severity of your symptoms, such as breathing problems. If your symptoms are mild, your doctor may suggest medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, or steroid sprays.
If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may recommend a surgery called septoplasty. During this procedure, a surgeon straightens and repositions your nasal septum. Recovery from surgery usually takes a few days to a week. The bone and cartilage will continue healing for several months to a year. Your doctor will let you know when you can return to your normal activities.
In some cases, rhinoplasty to reshape the nose may be performed along with septoplasty.