Breathing comfortably is something most of us take for granted—until it becomes a challenge. For many adults, difficulty breathing through the nose might be linked to a condition known as a deviated septum. If you’ve heard the term but aren’t quite sure what it means or how it could be impacting your daily life, you’re in the right place. Here’s an overview of what a deviated septum is, how it can affect your breathing, and steps you can take to address the issue.
What Is a Deviated Septum
The septum is the thin wall of cartilage and bone that separates your two nasal passages. Ideally, it should sit straight down the center of your nose, allowing equal airflow through both nostrils. However, for many people, the septum isn’t perfectly aligned, and this is referred to as a deviated septum.
A deviated septum can be caused by an injury to the nose, abnormalities present at birth, or natural growth patterns. While some people may not notice any symptoms, an uneven septum can sometimes lead to a range of breathing challenges and related concerns.
How a Deviated Septum Affects Your Breathing
When the septum is off-center, one nasal passage may become smaller than the other. This imbalance can make it harder to breathe comfortably through the smaller nostril, especially during exercise or while sleeping. Many individuals with this issue report feeling congested on one side of the nose or needing to breathe through their mouth, which can be frustrating and disrupt sleep quality. Additionally, an uneven septum may contribute to other issues like frequent sinus infections, headaches, or even nosebleeds. These symptoms are often caused by the reduced airflow and poor drainage from one or both nostrils. It’s worth noting that the severity of these effects varies from person to person.
What You Can Do
If you suspect a deviated septum might be affecting your breathing, there are steps you can take to find some relief.
First, consider your environment. Dry air can exacerbate nasal congestion, so using a humidifier can keep your nasal passages moist and more comfortable. Over-the-counter remedies like saline sprays or decongestants may help alleviate mild symptoms, but they are not long-term solutions for structural issues.
If symptoms persist, it may be time to consult a professional such as an otolaryngologist or rhinologist. They can provide a thorough evaluation to determine the extent of the deviation and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Professional Treatment Options
For some, non-invasive measures like nasal strips might provide temporary relief by improving airflow during sleep. However, cases with more significant symptoms may require a surgical procedure called a septoplasty.
Septoplasty is a procedure designed to straighten the septum, improving airflow through the nasal passages. It’s typically performed on an outpatient basis and focuses solely on correcting the structure of the septum, leaving the external appearance of the nose unchanged unless combined with cosmetic surgery, like rhinoplasty.
Your physician can guide you through the decision-making process and help weigh the benefits and considerations of treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
Also Read: When Should I See An Asthma Specialist?
Breathing Easy
While a deviated septum can interfere with comfortable breathing, it’s a treatable condition. Understanding your symptoms and seeking professional advice can make a significant difference in your day-to-day comfort and overall quality of life. If breathing through your nose feels like an ongoing challenge, don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare provider specializing in nasal or sinus issues. With proper care and targeted solutions, relief can be well within reach.
