What is Nasal Septum Deviation?

What is Nasal Septum Scoliosis? Get informed on one of the most common disorders of the nose, the deviated nasal septum and its effects.

     The nasal septum is the anatomical partition that separates the two nostrils.
The septum consists of two parts: an external cartilaginous portion and an internal bony portion. Septal deviation usually affects the cartilaginous part of the septum, which is located towards the front of the nose.

Causes of a Deviated Nasal Septum:
     The most common cause of a deviated nasal septum is hereditary predisposition. It has been observed that children born by vaginal delivery are more likely to develop a deviated nasal septum than those delivered by Caesarean section. This is attributed to the rotation of the newborn’s head as it passes through the birth canal.

     Other causes of septal deviation may include nasal injuries or trauma, previous surgical procedures (iatrogenic causes), as well as worsening of an existing deviation with age.
In addition to a deviated nasal septum, hypertrophy of the inferior nasal turbinates is also quite common and can further impair breathing.

Symptoms of a Deviated Nasal Septum:
     The consequences of a deviated nasal septum may include nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing, snoring, or even episodes of obstructive sleep apnea. Furthermore, nasal blockage and restricted airflow may contribute to recurrent sinusitis, Eustachian tube dysfunction and middle ear infections (otitis media).

     Finally, a deviated nasal septum has also been implicated in recurrent headaches or migraines, irritability and feeling unwell in the morning.