Symptoms
Most people have some degree of septal deviation, but only a small number of people experience symptoms. Symptoms of a deviated septum can include:
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Nasal congestion
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Difficulty breathing through the nose
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Frequent nosebleeds
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Facial pain or pressure
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Sinus infections
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Headaches
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Postnasal drip
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Loud snoring
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If you have symptoms of a deviated septum, you should see a doctor or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. The doctor will examine your nose and may order imaging tests, such as a CT scan, to get a better view of the septum.
Causes
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This condition can be congenital (present at birth) or develop as a result of injury or trauma to the nose.
Additionally, a deviated septum can be caused by a number of factors, including:
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Enlarged turbinates (the bony structures inside the nose that help to warm and humidify the air)
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Allergic rhinitis (hay fever), learn more here
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Chronic sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses)
Treatment
If your deviated septum is causing severe symptoms, surgery (septoplasty, learn more here) may be an option. Septoplasty is a procedure to straighten and reposition the nasal septum. It is an outpatient procedure that is typically performed under general anesthesia.
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After septoplasty, most people experience a significant improvement in their symptoms. However, it is important to note that surgery may not completely resolve all symptoms, especially if other nasal or sinus conditions are present.