Deviated septum

Deviated Septum is a medical condition that involves a displacement of the nasal septum. The nasal septum is the thin wall made of cartilage that separates the nostrils of the nose. Ideally, the septum should run down the center of the nose. When it deviates into one of the cavities, it narrows that cavity and impedes airflow, often causing breathing trouble.

Causes

A deviated septum can be caused by a number of factors. Some people are born with a deviated septum, but it can also be caused by an injury to the nose. Most people with a deviated septum have one nasal passage that is much smaller than the other. This can lead to facial pain, nosebleeds, and breathing problems.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of a deviated septum is nasal congestion, with one side of the nose being more congested than the other, along with difficulty breathing. Recurrent or repeated sinus infections can also be a sign of a deviated septum. Nosebleeds and facial pain are other symptoms, as well as a noisy breathing during sleep in adults or snoring in children.

Treatment

Treatment for a deviated septum can include medications to reduce the symptoms or surgery (Septoplasty) for severe cases. Medications include nasal steroid sprays, decongestants, and antihistamines. These can reduce nasal congestion and inflammation, improving symptoms.

See Also

• Nasal congestion
• Septoplasty
• Nosebleeds
• Sinusitis

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