What is a deviated septum?
A deviated septum occurs when the thin nasal wall between the nostrils, called the nasal septum, is pushed to one side of the nose.
What causes a deviated septum?
A deviated nasal septum can occur at birth during fetal development, and is apparent from the time of birth. In other cases, a deviated septum occurs due to trauma. In this case, an injury causes the septum to push to one side or the other, and heals in that position. This type of injury is most common in physical contact sports or automobile accidents.
What are the symptoms of a deviated septum?
Nasal septum deviation can manifest in multiple different ways. Sometimes, you may not even notice that you have a deviated septum. When symptoms do show, they may include:
- Nasal obstruction
- Nosebleeds
- Facial pain
- Noisy breathing or snoring
- Nose that looks crooked
- Nasal drainage
What are the risk factors for a deviated septum?
Some factors that can increase the chances of suffering from a deviated septum due to trauma may include:
- Playing contact sports
- Riding or driving in a motor vehicle
- Not wearing a helmet while using a bike
- Being involved in physical fights
"I’ve been a patient of Dr. Volpi’s for more than two years. As someone who is genetically inclined toward sinus issues, I’ve seen my share of ENTs and he is hands down the best. He explains everything to you in terms you can understand without being pedantic and truly cares about his patients. After he performed my second sinus surgery (to fix another doctor’s failed attempt) he even gave my mother (my post-surgery caretaker) his cell number and was answering her questions no matter the time of day. Finding a good, friendly doctor in NYC can be a challenge, but rest assured you are in good hands at this office."
How is a deviated septum diagnosed?
An ear, nose and throat doctor at New York ENT can diagnose a deviated septum with a physical exam of the patient, by looking into the nasal passage and observing the affected area. Once a diagnosis is made, you can speak with a doctor about the deviated septum treatment option that is best for you.
What is the best treatment for a deviated septum?
Doctors at New York ENT can treat your deviated septum by controlling the symptoms or through surgical repair called septoplasty:
Symptom Management
- Decongestants can reduce swelling in the naval passage to help limit congestion and breathing difficulty
- Nasal Sprays can help to reduce inflammation and open airways that have been obstructed
- Antihistamines can help to reduce the effects of allergies, such as drainage or congestion
Surgical Treatment
Septoplasty surgery can be performed in situations when other medical intervention does not reduce symptoms or for severe conditions. During the surgery, doctors reposition the septum to the center of the nose. This sometimes requires removing parts of the septum in order to realign symmetrically.
Surgical Treatment
If you are suffering from a deviated septum, the first step towards feeling better is to schedule an evaluation with an experienced ear, nose and throat doctor. Board certified physicians with New York ENT have extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of nasal conditions. Fill out the form on this page or call our office at 212-873-6036 to schedule an appointment today.
FAQs
What is a deviated septum?
A deviated septum happens when the thin wall between your nasal passages shifts to one side. This can cause breathing issues, frequent sinus infections, nosebleeds, and chronic congestion.
How do you know if you have a deviated septum?
You might notice one nostril feels constantly blocked, you have frequent sinus infections, or you breathe loudly during sleep. If these symptoms persist, it’s time to see an ENT specialist.
Can you test for a deviated septum at home? What does a deviated septum feel like?
While you can't officially diagnose it at home, signs like easier breathing suggest you may have a deviated septum. You may feel congested on one side of your nose, experience facial pressure, or have trouble breathing freely.
Can a deviated septum get worse over time?
Yes, it can worsen due to injury or natural aging, potentially leading to more severe symptoms.
How common is a deviated septum?
It’s very common. Many people have some degree of septal deviation, though only some experience symptoms.
Is surgery always necessary for a deviated septum?
No, not always. Mild cases can be managed with nasal sprays, antihistamines, or decongestants. Surgery becomes an option when symptoms interfere with your daily life.
What is septoplasty?
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct a deviated septum. It realigns the nasal wall to restore normal airflow and alleviate symptoms.
Are there any risks or complications from deviated septum surgery?
Like any procedure, there are potential risks such as bleeding, infection, or slight changes in nasal shape. These are rare when performed by experienced professionals.
Can a deviated septum come back after surgery?
Although uncommon, re-deviation can happen due to trauma or healing complications. Most cases do not recur.
Can a deviated septum cause sleep apnea or worsen snoring?
Yes. Obstructed airflow from a deviated septum can lead to loud snoring and contribute to sleep apnea in some cases.
Can a deviated septum cause headaches or dizziness?
You may experience headaches or sinus pressure. In some cases, impaired airflow can even lead to dizziness or lightheadedness.
How does a deviated septum affect breathing during exercise?
It can restrict nasal airflow, making it harder to breathe efficiently during workouts or physical activity.
Does a deviated septum affect smell or taste?
Yes. Limited airflow can affect your sense of smell, which may also reduce your ability to taste food.
How much does deviated septum surgery cost?
Costs can vary based on your specific condition and treatment needs. Reach out to our office to schedule a consultation and get a personalized cost estimate.
What makes New York ENT the right choice for treating a deviated septum?
At New York ENT, you receive expert care from a specialized team in New York, NY, who use advanced diagnostic tools, personalized treatment plans, and guide you through every step of your care journey.
How do you schedule an appointment with New York ENT?
You can call New York ENT at 212-873-6036 to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward easier breathing.
