What is a Deviated Nasal Septum?
The nasal septum is the thin wall of cartilage and bone that divides the inside of the nose into two passages. Ideally, it should sit in the centre, creating equal airflow through both nostrils. In many people, however, the septum is slightly off-centre. When the deviation is more severe, it can cause one side of the nose to be narrower, leading to difficulty breathing, congestion, or other nasal problems. A deviated septum can be present from birth, develop during growth, or result from an injury to the nose.
Symptoms of a Deviated Nasal Septum
The most common symptom is persistent nasal blockage, often worse on one side. This may lead to difficulty breathing through the nose, particularly at night, and can contribute to snoring or sleep disturbance. Other symptoms include frequent sinus infections, nosebleeds, post-nasal drip, headaches, and a reduced sense of smell. In some cases, the problem may be cosmetic too, especially if the nose has been injured and appears crooked.
Treatment Options
Mild cases may not need treatment if symptoms are minimal. Nasal sprays and medications can sometimes relieve congestion, but they do not correct the septum itself. For patients with significant obstruction or ongoing problems, surgery called septoplasty is often recommended. This procedure straightens the septum by removing or repositioning the parts causing the blockage, improving airflow through the nose. Septoplasty is carried out inside the nose without external scars and is often combined with other procedures, such as turbinate reduction, if needed. An ENT specialist can assess the severity of the deviation, usually with a nasal endoscopy, and discuss whether surgery would be beneficial.
If you’re struggling with a deviated septum, get in touch with your ENT specialist in London to book a consultation today!
020 3897 0667
