Deviated Septum

Also known as: nasal septum deviation, deviated nasal septum, DNS.

What is a deviated septum?

The nostrils and two nasal passages within the nose are separated by a thin wall called the nasal septum. When this septum is out of place, it can make one nasal passage smaller and cause nasal congestion with difficulty breathing. This is known as deviated septum.

What causes deviated septum?

In some cases, the nose is malformed at birth. Other times, an injury to the nose causes a deviated septum. In many patients, a deviated septum develops from abnormal growth of the septum and there is no history of injury to the nose.

What are the symptoms of deviated septum?

Difficulty breathing, frequent nosebleeds, blockage of the nasal passage, snoring and a preference to sleep on one side are all signs of a deviated septum.

What are deviated septum care options?

In some cases, medicines such as antihistamines and nasal sprays can alleviate the symptoms of a deviated septum. In more severe cases, surgical repair can be offered.


Reviewed by: Sandeep P Dave, M.D.

This page was last updated on: September 09, 2019 03:00 PM