In the majority of individuals, the septum doesn’t split the nose into two halves that are exactly equal. A slight shift from the center typically doesn’t lead to any issues unless it occurs near the nasal valve area. Issues only occur when this shift obstructs the passage of air through one or both nostrils.
This might occur if the front section of the septum detaches from the nasal floor and shifts to one side, thereby narrowing that nostril. This can limit or completely block the flow of air through the nostrils.
Additionally, the nasal septum can curve and form an S shape. In such a scenario, the tissue is not properly aligned, leading to restrictions or complete blockages in the airflow.
For most individuals there is no specific cause, it’s just the way they have grown. For some individuals, trauma can cause a deviated septum. Injuries from falls or sports activities in early life might lead to minor, unnoticeable breaks. These breaks can lead to the septum growing in an unusual way.
Nasal obstruction is the main symptom on whichever side the septum is deviated towards. Occasionally there are other symptoms but these are less common:
A deviated septum never causes discharge or pain. If allergies are present at the same time a deviated septum can reduce sprays getting into the nose thereby exacerbating the allergy symptoms on that side.
Septoplasty. (see procedures)
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