If you have regular nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through one side of your nose or frequent sinus infections, you might have a condition called a deviated septum. It’s more common than people realise, and while it can be disruptive, a range of treatment options can help you feel more comfortable again.
In this blog post, we’ll explain what a deviated septum is, what treatment options are available and if you need to have surgery.
Understanding a deviated septum
The nasal septum is the thin wall made of cartilage and bone that separates the left and right sides of your nose. In most people, it’s slightly off-centre, but when the septum is noticeably crooked, it can make one nasal passage smaller than the other. This is called a deviated septum.
Some people are born with this condition, while others may develop it following an injury. For many, it doesn’t cause any issues.
However, for others, it can lead to symptoms such as:
- Ongoing nasal congestion, often worse on one side
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Facial pressure or headaches
- Snoring or sleep apnoea
- Poor sleep due to nasal blockage
If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s worth having them assessed, particularly if they affect your quality of life.
Do I need surgery for a deviated septum?
Not everyone with a deviated septum needs surgery – it depends on how troublesome the symptoms are. For milder cases, you may find relief from your symptoms with medical treatments such as nasal sprays or antihistamines. These can help reduce inflammation and ease congestion, especially if you also have allergies.
However, these treatments do not correct the position of the septum. If you continue to have difficulties – such as frequent sinus infections, poor sleep or ongoing nasal blockage – your ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist may recommend a surgical procedure called a septoplasty.
What is a septoplasty?
Septoplasty is a straightforward surgical procedure to straighten the septum and improve airflow through your nose.
It’s typically performed under general anaesthetic and involves:
- Making a small incision inside the nostril
- Straightening or removing the crooked sections of cartilage and bone
- Closing the incision with dissolvable stitches
Most people can return home the same day as their surgery. While there may be some swelling or discomfort initially, recovery is usually smooth, and many patients notice a real improvement in their breathing within six to twelve weeks.
Risks and recovery of a septoplasty
As with any surgery, septoplasty carries some potential risks, including bleeding, infection or persistent nasal blockage. However, your surgical team will take every precaution to ensure risks are avoided wherever possible, and your safety will be paramount throughout.
There’s a small chance of changes to the shape of the nose or a hole forming in the septum, though this is rare.
After surgery, you’ll receive clear instructions from your surgeon or ENT specialist to support healing. These may include avoiding strenuous activity, refraining from blowing your nose for a short time and keeping your head elevated while resting to help reduce swelling.
When to see an ENT specialist
If blocked nasal passages make it difficult to breathe, sleep or enjoy everyday life, it may be time to seek expert advice. A full assessment can help determine whether a deviated septum is the cause of your symptoms and what steps to take next.
At ENT Sheffield, we’re here to help. Mr Wale Olarinde and his team provide experienced, personalised care to help you breathe more easily and feel your best.
Book an appointment with ENT Sheffield to explore your options for deviated septum treatment and find lasting relief.