Deviated Nasal Septum
A deviated nasal septum is a condition where the cartilage and bone that separates the nose into two chambers, is not straight. This can cause a number of symptoms, including:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose, especially on one side
- Congestion
- Nasal discharge
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Frequent sinus infections
- Reduced sense of smell
- Headaches
- Noisy breathing during sleep or even contribute to sleep apnea
A deviated septum can be present at birth or can develop after an injury.
Most people have a very mild deviated septum that doesn't cause any problems. In fact, estimates suggest that 80% of nasal septums are off-center.
The preferred treatment for a deviated septum is a surgical procedure called a septoplasty. During this procedure, a surgeon trims, moves, or replaces cartilage and bone to straighten the septum. Septoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure, and most people can go home the same day. Swelling may last a few days, and full recovery can take up to three months and will depend on other conditions such as environmental allergies or autoimmune disorders and whether other procedures had to be performed at the same time such as reduction of the nasal turbinates, or opening up of the sinuses.
