Deviated Nasal Septum

The septum is the wall that separates the nostrils. In most patients, the septum is straight, making both nasal passages the same size. The septum can be formed crooked or made crooked due to injury, making one passage larger than the other.

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A deviated septum is a structural abnormality in the nose that can lead to chronic congestion and breathing difficulties. In many cases, the symptoms can be effectively managed with medication, but surgery is necessary if you hope to resolve the condition permanently.

Treatment Options for a Deviated Septum

If your deviated septum is relatively minor, medications may be offered to help manage your symptoms. Decongestants, antihistamines, and nasal steroid sprays can be used to minimize congestion, breathing challenges, and other symptoms temporarily.

If medications prove ineffective and your deviation is significant, your doctor may recommend a septoplasty to repair the abnormality surgically. The procedure will be performed under general anesthesia and involves reshaping and re-positioning the cartilage and bone to address the deviation and deliver lasting relief from your symptoms.

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What is a Deviated Septum?

A deviated septum is an abnormality involving the bone and cartilage that divides the nasal cavity in half. When this structure is significantly displaced to one side, breathing can become difficult and treatment may be necessary to improve airflow through the nose. Patients may be born with a deviated septum, or the condition may develop following an injury or trauma to the area. Simply having a deviated septum does not necessarily mean you require treatment. Many patients experience only minor symptoms that don’t impact their lives too significantly. However, substantial deviations can cause severe symptoms and complications including dry mouth, difficulty sleeping, a feeling of pressure in the nasal passages, and other challenges that can impact your quality of life.

Symptoms of a Deviated Septum

Nasal congestion on one or both sides of the nose
Chronic breathing difficulties
Noisy breathing during sleep
Facial pain and headaches
Awareness of the nasal cycle
Post-nasal drip
Nosebleeds

About SFENTA

South Florida ENT Associates has been helping our community improve their health for over 30 years. We provide the full spectrum of ENT care and surgery.

At each of our locations, you will be provided with:

Patient-Centered Care

During your appointment, your provider will take the time to understand your symptoms, educate you on your condition, and help you navigate the treatment options available.

Continuity of Care

We work to deliver comprehensive care that leads to long-term symptom relief.

A Network of Highly Trained Physicians

When visiting your provider, you not only have access to him or her, but also the entire SFENTA network of over 50 physicians. We strive to provide our physicians with the ability to collaborate, leading to enhanced clinical data and patient outcomes.

The Trust of a Community Staple

With a commitment to accessibility and convenience, we’re here to make high-quality ENT care as easy as possible.

Deviated Septum FAQs

What causes a deviated septum?

There is no genetic factor that makes one more susceptible to having a deviated septum. In some patients, a deviated septum will be present at birth. In others, a deviated septum can be the result of an injury to the nose.

How is a deviated septum diagnosed?

A deviated septum can be diagnosed during a simple visit to your SFENTA Miami Beach ear, nose, and throat doctor. During your appointment, your doctor will examine the inside of your nose and the nasal tissues. This visual assessment and a discussion of your symptoms are all that’s needed to determine the severity of your deviation and the most effective treatment options.

Is surgery the only treatment option?

While other treatments may relieve some of the side effects of a deviated septum, surgery is the only way to correct the issue permanently.