Description
The nasal septum separates the two sides of the nose. A deviated septum is the movement of the tissue between the nostrils (septum) to one side or the other. The blockage of one air passage results in decreased airflow and over time can cause sinus infections, nosebleeds and difficulty breathing at night. A deviated septum can be present at birth, but usually results from trauma later in life.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include blocked nasal passages, nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, facial pain, postnasal drip and noisy breathing during sleep.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed. The diagnosis can usually be made based on exam findings.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Allergy and Immunology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed. The diagnosis can usually be made based on exam findings.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Family Practice, Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Allergy and Immunology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Treatment
Treatment usually requires a surgical procedure called a septoplasty. This procedure moves the septum back to the middle of the nose.