7 Common Deviated Septum Symptoms You Should Know

A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall (nasal septum) between your nasal passages is displaced to one side, making one nasal passage smaller than the other. This condition is quite common, with many people having some degree of septal deviation. While some cases cause no noticeable problems, others can lead to various uncomfortable symptoms that affect daily life.

Understanding the symptoms of a deviated septum is crucial for early detection and proper management. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most common signs of this condition, what causes it, and answer frequently asked questions to help you better understand this nasal condition.

1. Nasal Congestion

One of the most prevalent symptoms of a deviated septum is persistent nasal congestion, typically affecting one side more than the other. This occurs because the deviation restricts airflow through the narrower nasal passage, making it difficult to breathe freely through your nose.

The congestion may worsen during certain situations:

• When lying down, especially at night
• During physical activities or exercise
• When experiencing a cold or allergies
• In dry or cold weather conditions

Many people with this symptom find themselves breathing more through their mouth, which can lead to dry mouth and throat discomfort. The congestion may alternate between nostrils or remain consistently worse on one side.

2. Frequent Nosebleeds

People with a deviated nasal septum often experience recurrent nosebleeds (epistaxis). This happens because the airflow through the nose becomes turbulent due to the deviation, causing the nasal passages to dry out more easily. The drying effect is particularly pronounced on the surface of the nasal septum.

The nosebleeds associated with a deviated septum typically occur because:

• The deviated septum creates uneven airflow patterns
• One side of the nasal passage experiences increased air exposure
• The nasal lining becomes dried and cracked
• Blood vessels in the septum become more vulnerable to breaking

These nosebleeds may be more frequent during winter months when indoor heating reduces humidity levels, or in dry climates.

3. Facial Pain and Headaches

A deviated septum can cause significant facial pain and pressure, particularly around the nose, forehead, and cheeks. This discomfort occurs when the deviated portion of the septum makes contact with the lateral nasal wall, creating pressure points within the nasal cavity.

The pain and headaches associated with this condition often have these characteristics:

• Concentrated on one side of the face
• Worsening throughout the day
• Intensifying during weather changes or altitude shifts
• Accompanied by a feeling of pressure or fullness

Some individuals describe the sensation as a constant dull ache, while others experience sharp, intermittent pain. The headaches can be particularly bothersome because they may mimic sinus headaches or migraines.

4. Loud Breathing and Snoring

A deviated septum significantly impacts breathing sounds, especially during sleep. The narrowed nasal passage forces air through a restricted space, creating turbulent airflow that produces noisy breathing and snoring. This symptom affects not only the person with the condition but can also disturb their partner’s sleep.

The breathing difficulties manifest as:

• Loud snoring that may worsen over time
• Whistling sounds when breathing through the nose
• Noisy breathing during physical activity
• Audible breathing even during quiet activities

In severe cases, the deviated septum may contribute to sleep apnea, a serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can lead to poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, and other health complications.

5. Recurrent Sinus Infections

People with a deviated nasal septum are more susceptible to chronic or recurrent sinus infections (sinusitis). The deviation impairs proper drainage of the sinuses, creating an environment where bacteria and mucus can accumulate. This stagnation makes it easier for infections to develop and persist.

Signs that your sinus infections may be related to a deviated septum include:

• Experiencing three or more sinus infections per year
• Infections that consistently affect the same side
• Prolonged recovery time from sinus infections
• Persistent nasal discharge or post-nasal drip
• Feeling of pressure or fullness in the sinuses

The blocked drainage pathways prevent normal sinus ventilation and mucus clearance, allowing infections to take hold more easily than in people with normal septal alignment.

6. Difficulty Sleeping and Sleep Disturbances

A deviated septum can severely impact sleep quality due to compromised nasal breathing. Many individuals with this condition experience various sleep disturbances that affect their overall health and daily functioning.

Sleep-related symptoms include:

• Difficulty falling asleep due to breathing obstruction
• Waking up frequently during the night
• Feeling unrested even after a full night’s sleep
• Waking with a dry mouth from mouth breathing
• Morning headaches or facial pressure
• Daytime fatigue and reduced concentration

The poor sleep quality can have cascading effects on mood, productivity, and overall quality of life. Some people unconsciously change their sleeping position to favor the less obstructed nostril, which may lead to neck or shoulder discomfort.

7. Postnasal Drip

Postnasal drip is a common and often bothersome symptom of a deviated septum. This occurs when excess mucus accumulates in the back of the nose and throat because the deviated septum interferes with normal mucus drainage patterns. Instead of draining properly through the nose, the mucus flows down the back of the throat.

People experiencing postnasal drip often notice:

• Constant need to clear the throat
• Sensation of mucus dripping down the throat
• Persistent cough, especially at night or in the morning
• Sore or irritated throat
• Bad breath despite good oral hygiene
• Nausea from swallowing excess mucus

This symptom can be particularly annoying because it tends to be persistent and may worsen when lying down. The constant throat clearing can also lead to vocal strain and social discomfort.

Main Causes of Deviated Septum

Understanding what causes a deviated septum can help you identify risk factors and potential prevention strategies. The main causes include:

Congenital Deviation

Many people are born with a deviated septum. This can occur during fetal development or during the birth process itself. The passage through the birth canal can sometimes cause trauma to the baby’s nose, resulting in septal deviation. In some cases, the deviation develops as the nose grows during childhood and adolescence.

Traumatic Injury

Injury to the nose is one of the most common causes of deviated septum in adults and children. Trauma can result from:

• Contact sports like football, boxing, or martial arts
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Falls or physical altercations
• Any direct blow to the nose

Even injuries that occurred years ago can result in a deviated septum that causes symptoms later in life.

Aging Process

Normal aging can contribute to or worsen a deviated septum. As we age, nasal structures can shift and the septum may gradually move to one side. Additionally, the cartilage and bone can weaken over time, potentially exacerbating an existing deviation.

Previous Nasal Surgery

In some cases, previous nasal or sinus surgery can inadvertently result in septal deviation. While rare, surgical complications or changes in the nasal structure during healing may lead to this condition.

Prevention Strategies

While congenital deviated septum cannot be prevented, there are measures you can take to reduce the risk of developing this condition from injury or worsening an existing deviation:

Protect Your Nose from Injury

• Wear appropriate protective gear during contact sports, including face masks or helmets with face guards
• Use seatbelts and proper car seats to minimize injury risk during accidents
• Practice caution during physical activities to avoid falls
• Create a safe home environment to prevent falls, especially for children and elderly individuals

Maintain Nasal Health

• Use a humidifier to keep nasal passages moist, especially in dry climates or during winter
• Stay hydrated to maintain healthy mucus consistency
• Avoid irritants like smoke, strong chemicals, and allergens that can inflame nasal tissues
• Treat allergies and upper respiratory infections promptly to prevent chronic inflammation

Regular Check-ups

If you’ve experienced nasal trauma or have a family history of deviated septum, regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help detect and monitor any septal deviation before symptoms become severe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a deviated septum get worse over time?

Yes, a deviated septum can worsen with age as nasal structures change and cartilage weakens. Additionally, repeated nasal trauma, chronic inflammation from allergies, or untreated sinus infections can exacerbate the deviation and make symptoms more pronounced.

How do I know if I have a deviated septum?

Common signs include persistent one-sided nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, loud snoring, recurrent sinus infections, and facial pain. However, a definitive diagnosis requires examination by a healthcare provider who will inspect your nasal passages, possibly using a nasal speculum or endoscope.

Can a deviated septum cause breathing problems?

Yes, a deviated septum can significantly impair nasal breathing by blocking airflow through one or both nasal passages. This can make it difficult to breathe through your nose, especially during physical activity or while lying down, forcing you to breathe through your mouth instead.

Is a deviated septum serious?

While not life-threatening, a deviated septum can significantly impact quality of life. Severe cases may contribute to chronic sinus infections, sleep apnea, and persistent breathing difficulties. If symptoms interfere with daily activities or sleep, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider.

Can a deviated septum cause sleep apnea?

A deviated septum can contribute to or worsen obstructive sleep apnea by restricting airflow through the nose. While it’s not the only cause of sleep apnea, the breathing obstruction from a deviated septum can make sleep apnea symptoms more severe in people who already have this condition.

Do both nostrils have to be affected?

No, symptoms often affect one side more than the other. The nostril on the narrower side typically experiences more congestion, while the wider side may be more prone to dryness and nosebleeds due to increased airflow. However, some people experience alternating symptoms on both sides.

When should I see a doctor about my symptoms?

You should consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent nasal congestion that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter remedies, frequent nosebleeds, chronic sinus infections, significant sleep disturbances, or facial pain. A medical professional can properly diagnose your condition and discuss appropriate management options.

Can children have a deviated septum?

Yes, children can have a deviated septum, either from birth or from injury. Signs in children include chronic mouth breathing, snoring, recurrent sinus infections, and frequent nosebleeds. If you notice these symptoms in your child, consult with a pediatrician or ear, nose, and throat specialist.

References:

• Mayo Clinic – Deviated Septum
• Johns Hopkins Medicine – Deviated Septum
• Cleveland Clinic – Deviated Septum
• Healthline – Deviated Septum
• MedlinePlus – Deviated Septum