It is constructed from a skeleton made of cartilage at the front, and bone at the back. This skeleton is covered by the same lining that covers the rest of the nose and sinuses.
Deviations (twists) of the septum can be caused by injuries, but in many cases, patients do not recall any trauma and the septum may have simply become ‘buckled’ during a person’s growth.
Septal deviations are a condition in which the nasal septum, the bone and cartilage that divides the nose into two halves, is crooked. This can cause one nasal passage to be smaller than the other, making it difficult to breathe through the nose.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of a septal deviation is difficulty breathing through the nose, especially during exercise or when lying down. Other symptoms may include:
Effects on people
A septal deviation can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. Difficulty breathing through the nose can make it difficult to exercise, sleep, and work. It can also lead to other health problems, such as sinus infections and chronic headaches.
Common conditions and problems for people
People with septal deviations may be more likely to experience the following conditions and problems:
The exact cause of septal deviations is unknown, but they are thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some people are born with septal deviations, while others develop them as a result of a nose injury.
Genetics
Some studies have shown that septal deviations may be more common in families with a history of the condition. This suggests that there may be a genetic component to the disorder.
Lifestyle
There is no evidence that lifestyle factors, such as smoking or drinking alcohol, can cause septal deviations. However, these factors can worsen the symptoms of the condition.
Disease
Some diseases, such as cystic fibrosis and sarcoidosis, can increase the risk of developing a septal deviation.
Who gets them? (sex/age/demographics etc)
Septal deviations are more common in men than in women. They are also more common in people who have had a nose injury.
A septal deviation can be diagnosed by Mr Khatwa during a physical examination. Mr Khatwa will use a nasal speculum to widen the nostrils and look at the septum. If the septum is crooked, Mr Khatwa will be able to see it.
In some cases, Mr Khatwa may order additional tests, such as an X-ray or CT scan, to get a better look at the septum.
The diagnosis process for a septal deviation is typically straightforward. Mr Khatwa will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and then perform a physical examination. If Mr Khatwa suspects a septal deviation, they may order additional tests, such as an X-ray or CT scan.
Once a septal deviation has been diagnosed, Mr Khatwa will work with you to develop a treatment plan. The treatment plan will depend on the severity of your symptoms and your overall health.
If your symptoms are mild, Mr Khatwa may recommend lifestyle changes, such as using a saline nasal spray or avoiding nasal irritants. If your symptoms are more severe, Mr Khatwa may recommend medication or surgery.
The most common treatment for a septal deviation is surgery. The surgery is called a septoplasty. During a septoplasty, the surgeon will straighten the septum and make the nasal passages more equal in size.
Other treatment options for septal deviations include:
