The nasal septum is the internal wall that divides the nose into two passages. It is made of cartilage at the front and thin bone at the back, and ideally it should be straight and centered. A deviated septum occurs when this wall shifts to one side, narrowing one nasal airway. This is very common, affecting up to 70–80% of people to some degree, though not everyone experiences symptoms.
Common Symptoms
-
Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils
-
Chronic nasal congestion, worse on one side
-
Frequent nosebleeds due to drying of the nasal lining
-
Snoring, noisy breathing, or disturbed sleep
-
Facial pressure, headaches, or recurrent sinus infections
-
Worsening of sleep apnea in some cases
Causes and Risk Factors
Some people are born with a deviated septum, while others develop it after an injury such as a sports accident or fall. Even natural aging processes can make the septum bend more over time.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical advice if nasal blockage, frequent infections, or poor sleep are affecting your quality of life. An ENT specialist can examine your nasal passages with simple tools or a small camera to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Mild cases may be managed with:
-
Nasal steroid sprays, decongestants as needed (but not for regular use)
-
Antihistamines for allergy-related symptoms
-
Nasal strips for temporary relief
For persistent or severe cases, septoplasty—a surgical procedure to straighten the septum—is the most effective treatment. This surgery improves airflow and reduces related symptoms. In some cases, septoplasty may be combined with rhinoplasty for both functional and cosmetic improvement. Recovery is usually quick, with significant breathing improvement noticed within weeks.
Expert Care at Bumrungrad
At Bumrungrad International Hospital’s ENT Center, experienced specialists provide comprehensive care for nasal conditions, from conservative management to advanced surgical solutions such as septoplasty. Patients benefit from cutting-edge technology and a multidisciplinary approach designed to restore comfortable breathing and improve quality of life.
Provide by the ENT Center at Bumrungrad International Hospital
