Inside the nose, a thin wall of cartilage divides the space into two nasal passages. This wall is called the nasal septum. When the nasal septum is not centered, it causes one nasal passage to be smaller than the other. This is called a deviated septum. Sometimes it can cause symptoms in the nose and sinuses.
As many as 80% of all people may have a deviated septum, but it can range from slight to severe. In some cases, it can significantly block a nasal passage.
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What are the signs and symptoms of a deviated septum?
Some people have no symptoms from a deviated septum. But when symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Nosebleeds
- Sinus infections
- Trouble breathing through one or both sides of the nose
- Noisy breathing while asleep
What causes a deviated septum?
In some cases, children are born with a deviated septum. It can also be caused from an injury to the nose, such as from childbirth or playing sports.
How is a deviated septum treated?
Most people don’t need treatment for a deviated septum, and it can often be treated with nasal sprays. If the condition is severe, it may require surgery.
- Septoplasty is a surgery to correct a deviated septum by correcting or removing parts of the septum that are very deviated. This surgery is not usually done on young children unless the problem is very severe.
- Sinus surgery also may be performed at the same time as septoplasty.
Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan if your child requires treatment for a deviated septum.