The septum is the cartilage that separates nostrils. It is typically at the center and evenly divides the nostrils. However, in some individuals, it is not the case. There are individuals with an asymmetric septum making one airway larger than the other.
A deviated septum refers to the displacement of the cartilage. Studies indicate that 80% of people in the US lack a straight septum. Based on the severity of the differences in the nostrils, reduced flow of air, nasal blockage, and breathing challenges may occur.
A deviated septum will disrupt nasal drainage, causing a post nasal drip and a higher rate of infection. Additional exposure of the deviated septum to the drying effect of the airflow through your nose may cause bleeding or crusting in some people.
Causes of Deviated Septum
Although some deviated septum may be inherited, others result from injuries. If it is congenital, the deviation will occur during fetal development in the womb or during the delivery process. A study carried out in India in 2012 revealed that 20% of newborns had a deviated septum. The cases were associated with birth challenges and were predominant in overweight babies.
Most deviated septum that originates from birth have a C or S shape. The septum is smooth and available in the anterior portion of the nose. The deviation extent may change or increase as you age. Trauma-induced deviations are irregular, have extreme angles, and equally impact the entire septal region.
Deviations resulting from injuries may also involve fractured or dislocated portions of the cartilage. The aging process may also affect the nasal structures, worsening the condition over time. Irritation of the sinus and nasal cavities and swelling will narrow the nasal passages further, causing nasal obstruction.
Symptoms and Complications of Deviated Septum
Common symptoms associated with a deviated septum are difficulty breathing, inflammation, sinusitis, or infection of the mucous membranes. The symptoms may resemble those of allergies, common cold, or respiratory disease. Other symptoms include whistling noise when exhaling or inhaling, frequent nose bleeds, nasal congestion, nasal blockage, snoring, postnasal drips, and headaches.
Cases with serious deformities are more severe in babies because of the dependence on nasal breathing and narrow respiratory passages. Note that complications are fatal in extreme cases. It is advisable to promptly seek medical care if you experience confusion and dizziness alongside breathing difficulties.
Severe deviations are also associated with facial pain. Some people prefer sleeping on a particular side to optimize nasal breathing. It is common at night when a given nasal passage is narrowed. Most injuries to the nose are common during contact sports like wrestling and automobile accidents.
Other complications associated with a deviated septum are dry mouth because of chronic breathing through the mouth, disturbed sleep because of the unpleasantness of not breathing comfortably at night, and pressure in the nasal passages.
Treatment
In most cases, treatment is not necessary. For a severely deviated septum, a surgical procedure is the most suitable option. Surgery is indicated when the symptoms do not improve after medication. The physician will recommend a reconstructive surgery known as septoplasty. While preparing for surgery, it is advisable to avoid taking over the counter painkillers at least two weeks before the procedure. Those medications may increase bleeding risks. Patients should also terminate smoking because it disrupts the healing process. During surgery, the surgeon will cut out excess bone or cartilage. The result is a straightened nasal passages and septum.
Risks associated with septoplasty include:
- Septal hematoma
- Temporary numbness on the teeth and upper gum
- Reduced sense of smell
- Excessive bleeding
During recovery, the surgeon may prescribe some medications to alleviate discomfort, pain and prevent infections. It is vital to adhere to the surgeon’s instructions during recovery. Avoid disrupting your nose during healing by practicing the following tips:
- Keep off strenuous exercises
- Elevate your head as you sleep
- Do not blow your nose