Causative and risk factors
A deviated septum may be present since birth. It can also occur as a result of trauma to the nose.
Clinical presentation
Due to its abnormal shape or location, a deviated septum makes breathing difficult. The patient experiences nasal congestion and pain in the head or face. Other symptoms include bleeding from the nose and post-nasal drip. The patient tends to develop recurrent upper respiratory tract infections. A deviated nasal septum can cause the patient to snore and can sometimes even lead to sleep apnea.
Investigations
A deviated nasal septum can be diagnosed on the basis of physical examination of the nose.
Treatment
A mildly deviated nasal septum that does not produce distressing symptoms can be left alone. When the deviated septum is severe, surgical intervention is necessary. A surgery known as septoplasty is performed to repair a deviated septum. Sometimes another procedure known as rhinoplasty is performed in addition to septoplasty to enhance the cosmetic appearance of the nose.
