Understanding a Deviated Septum
A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall (nasal septum) that separates your nasal passages is displaced to one side, making one nasal passage smaller. This condition is common, and many people have some degree of septal deviation without any noticeable symptoms. However, a significantly deviated septum can cause various issues, including difficulty breathing through the nose.
Symptoms
Most people with a deviated septum are unaware of it because they do not experience symptoms. When symptoms are present, they can include:
- Nasal Obstruction: Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils. This can become more noticeable during colds or allergies, which cause the nasal passages to swell.
- Nosebleeds: A deviated septum can dry out the nasal septum, increasing the risk of nosebleeds.
- Facial Pain: Severe deviation might cause pressure and pain on one side of the face due to surfaces within the nose touching each other.
- Noisy Breathing During Sleep: A deviated septum can contribute to noisy breathing or snoring during sleep.
- Awareness of Nasal Cycle: Normally, people are unaware of the nasal cycle, the process by which the nose alternates between being obstructed on one side and then the other. Awareness of this cycle might indicate nasal obstruction.
- Preference for Sleeping on One Side: Some people might prefer sleeping on a particular side to improve breathing through the nose at night.
Causes
A deviated septum can be caused by:
- Congenital Factors: It can be present at birth due to developmental issues in the womb.
- Injury: Trauma to the nose from contact sports, rough play, or accidents can displace the septum. In infants, birth-related injuries might cause this condition.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing a deviated septum include:
- Playing Contact Sports: Involvement in sports like football or wrestling can increase the risk of nasal injuries.
- Automobile Accidents: Not wearing a seatbelt can lead to injuries that cause a deviated septum.
Complications
A severely deviated septum can lead to complications such as:
- Dry Mouth: Chronic mouth breathing due to nasal blockage can cause dry mouth.
- Nasal Congestion: Persistent pressure and congestion in the nasal passages.
- Disturbed Sleep: Difficulty breathing through the nose at night can lead to poor sleep quality.
Treatment
Treatment options for a deviated septum include:
- Medications: To reduce nasal swelling and improve airflow.
- Surgery (Septoplasty): To correct the septum and improve breathing. This is usually considered when medication does not alleviate symptoms.
Prevention
To reduce the risk of injuries that can cause a deviated septum:
- Wear Protective Gear: Use helmets or midface masks during contact sports.
- Use Seat Belts: Always wear a seat belt when in a motor vehicle to prevent injuries during accidents.
