Last Updated on November 27, 2025 by Ugurkan Demir

How to tell if you have a deviated septum by recognizing common symptoms like chronic congestion and one-sided breathing difficulty. A deviated septum happens when the thin wall between the nasal passages gets out of place. This wall is made of cartilage and bone. It makes one nasal passage smaller than the other. This condition is very common and affects many people.

The Cleveland Clinic says a deviated septum can lead to breathing problems, stuffy nose, and headaches. Knowing the warning signs and doing simple checks can help figure out if you have a deviated septum.

Spotting it early and getting the right diagnosis is key for good nasal health and breathing. We’ll cover the main symptoms and how to diagnose a deviated septum. This will help you understand if you might have one.

Key Takeaways

• A deviated septum is a common condition that can cause breathing difficulties and nasal congestion.
• Understanding the key symptoms is key for early identification and proper diagnosis.
• Simple self-assessments can help figure out if nasal blockage is from a deviated septum.
• Getting the right diagnosis is vital for optimal nasal health and breathing function.
• Trusted healthcare providers offer patient-centered care to tackle deviated septum issues.

Understanding Deviated Septums

It’s important to know about the nasal septum and how it can be off-center. The nasal septum is a key part of the nose. It’s made of cartilage and bone and splits the nasal cavity into two sides.

What Is the Nasal Septum?

The nasal septum is a thin wall of bone and cartilage. It separates the two sides of the nasal passages. It helps support the nose and makes sure air flows well through the nostrils.

Definition of a Deviated Septum

A deviated septum happens when the nasal septum is crooked. This makes one nostril smaller than the other. It can cause breathing problems, like trouble breathing through one or both nostrils.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a deviated septum can be from birth or a nose injury.

Prevalence and Statistics

Many people have deviated septums. About 80% of people have some degree of nasal septum deviation. But not all have symptoms.

The severity of the deviation can affect how bad the symptoms are. This varies from person to person.

Prevalence	Description	Symptomatic Cases
80%	Some degree of nasal septum deviation	Variable
20%	Significant deviation causing symptoms	Common
5%	Severe deviation requiring medical intervention	High

Knowing these numbers helps both patients and doctors. It shows how a deviated septum can affect someone’s life. It also helps decide on the right treatment.

Common Causes of Deviated Septums

Many things can cause a deviated septum, like congenital factors, trauma and injury, and age-related changes. Knowing what causes it helps find the right treatment.

Congenital Factors

Some people are born with a deviated septum. This can happen because of genetic predispositions or how they developed in the womb. The Mayo Clinic says some people are born with this issue. It can be mild or severe and affect breathing and daily life.

Trauma and Injury

Getting hurt in the nose can also cause a deviated septum. This might happen from sports injuries, falls, or other accidents. The injury can push the septum off track, making it hard to breathe.

Age-Related Changes

As we get older, our septum can shift more. This is because of aging. The septum might get crooked or the nasal passages narrow, making breathing harder. Aging also weakens the nose, making it more likely to deviate.

In summary, deviated septums can come from being born with it, getting hurt, or aging. Knowing these causes is key to getting the right medical help.

How Can You Tell if You Have a Deviated Septum: Key Symptoms

Knowing the signs of a deviated septum is key to getting the right medical help. A deviated septum can lead to many problems. These issues affect not just your nose but also your overall health.

Breathing Difficulties Through One Nostril

One common sign of a deviated septum is trouble breathing through one nostril. This happens because the deviation blocks the air flow. It makes breathing through the affected nostril harder.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Reduced airflow through one nostril
• Increased resistance when breathing in
• Feeling of nasal obstruction

Nasal Congestion and Obstruction

Nasal congestion is a common problem for those with a deviated septum. The deviation can make the nasal passages congested. This leads to a feeling of being blocked.

Nasal congestion can significantly impact daily activities. It makes it harder to do things that need focus or physical effort.

Recurring Sinus Infections

A deviated septum can make you more likely to get sinus infections over and over. The abnormal shape can stop the sinuses from draining properly. This creates a perfect place for infections to grow.

Common signs of recurring sinus infections include:

• Persistent facial pain and pressure
• Thick nasal discharge
• Coughing and congestion

Sleep Disruption and Snoring

Sleep problems and snoring can also be signs of a deviated septum. The blockage can cause you to breathe through your mouth. This can mess up your sleep and make you snore.

Potential sleep-related issues:

Symptom	Description
Snoring	Loud, harsh breathing during sleep
Sleep Disruption	Frequent awakenings during the night
Daytime Fatigue	Feeling tired and unrefreshed during the day

Spotting these symptoms is the first step to fixing the problem. If you’re dealing with any of these issues, seeing a healthcare professional is a must. They can give you the right diagnosis and treatment.

Secondary Signs and Symptoms

It’s important to know about secondary signs and symptoms of a deviated septum. These signs can give more insight into the condition, even if the main symptoms are not as obvious.

Frequent Nosebleeds

Frequent nosebleeds, or epistaxis, are common secondary symptoms. The irregular septum can make nasal passages dry and cracked, leading to bleeding. The Mayo Clinic says dry air and a deviated septum can make nosebleeds more likely.

Facial Pain and Pressure

Facial pain and pressure are also signs of a deviated septum. The abnormal airflow and pressure can cause sinus pain and facial discomfort. Sometimes, this pain is mistaken for other issues like sinusitis or migraines.

Noisy Breathing

Noisy breathing, often during sleep, can indicate a deviated septum. The obstruction leads to turbulent airflow, causing noisy breathing or snoring. This symptom is more noticeable in those with a significantly deviated septum.

Nasal Crusting and Dryness

Nasal crusting and dryness are secondary symptoms of a deviated septum. The changed airflow can dry out the nasal mucosa, causing crusts and discomfort. This can also make the nose feel congested.

Symptom	Description	Possible Complications
Frequent Nosebleeds	Dryness and cracking of the nasal passages	Recurring bleeding, nasal discomfort
Facial Pain and Pressure	Abnormal airflow and sinus pressure	Chronic pain, sinus infections
Noisy Breathing	Turbulent airflow during sleep	Snoring, sleep disruption
Nasal Crusting and Dryness	Altered nasal airflow and mucosa dryness	Nasal congestion, discomfort

Knowing these secondary signs can help you spot a deviated septum. If you notice several of these symptoms, see a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Self-Assessment Techniques for Deviated Septum

There are simple ways to check if you might have a deviated septum. These methods are easy, don’t hurt, and you can do them at home.

The Nostril Airflow Test

One easy test is the nostril airflow test. Here’s how to do it:

• Close one nostril with your finger.
• Breathe in and out through the open nostril.
• Do the same with the other nostril closed.
• Notice if one nostril lets more air through.

If one nostril lets more air than the other, it might mean you have a deviated septum.

Mirror Examination Methods

Another way is to use a mirror to look inside your nostrils. Look for any odd shapes or blockages in your nasal passage.

Steps to follow:

1. Use a bright light to see inside your nose.
2. Look into a mirror and tilt your head back.
3. Check the nasal septum for any odd shapes or blocks.

Breathing Exercise Evaluations

Try breathing exercises to see if you have a deviated septum. Breathe in deeply through your nose and then breathe out slowly. See if you feel any trouble or pain.

Tracking Symptom Patterns

Writing down your symptoms can help a lot. Keep track of how often and how bad symptoms like stuffy nose, trouble breathing, or sinus infections are. This info can help a doctor figure out what’s going on.

Self-Assessment Technique	Description	Potential Indicator of Deviated Septum
Nostril Airflow Test	Compare airflow through each nostril	Significant difference in airflow
Mirror Examination	Examine nasal septum for deviations	Visible deviation or obstruction
Breathing Exercises	Assess breathing difficulty	Difficulty breathing or discomfort
Symptom Tracking	Record frequency and severity of symptoms	Frequent or severe nasal congestion or sinus infections

Risk Factors and Complications

It’s important to know the risk factors and complications of a deviated septum. This condition can really affect your life. Some factors can make complications more likely.

Individuals Most Susceptible to Symptomatic Deviations

Some people are more likely to have symptoms from a deviated septum. This includes:

• Those with a history of nasal trauma or injury
• Individuals with congenital conditions affecting the nasal septum
• People experiencing age-related changes in the nasal passages
• Those with allergies or chronic sinusitis

Knowing these risk factors can help in early diagnosis and treatment. This can make symptoms less severe.

Complications of Untreated Deviated Septums

If a deviated septum is not treated, it can cause serious problems. The Mayo Clinic says complications include dry mouth, disturbed sleep, and repeated nosebleeds. Other issues can also happen, such as:

Complication	Description
Chronic Sinusitis	Recurring inflammation or infection of the sinuses
Sleep Disturbances	Difficulty sleeping due to nasal congestion or obstruction
Nasal Discharge and Crusting	Excessive nasal discharge and crusting due to chronic irritation

Knowing about these complications shows why it’s key to see a doctor if symptoms don’t go away or get worse.

We suggest talking to an ENT specialist if you think you might have a deviated septum. Getting help early can greatly improve your life and prevent serious problems later.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Knowing when to see a doctor for a deviated septum is important. A deviated septum can cause a lot of discomfort and health problems. But, not everyone needs to rush to the doctor right away. There are times when you should definitely go see a healthcare professional.

Severity Indicators

The severity of your symptoms is a big clue. If you have constant nasal congestion, trouble breathing, or keep getting sinus infections, it’s time to talk to a doctor. The Cleveland Clinic says if you have trouble breathing or keep getting nosebleeds, tell your doctor.

Some common severity indicators include:

• Severe nasal obstruction
• Recurring sinus infections
• Significant breathing difficulties

Impact on Daily Activities

If a deviated septum is messing with your daily life, it’s a sign you need to see a doctor. This could mean trouble sleeping, feeling tired all the time, or having a hard time with physical activities.

“If your symptoms are impacting your daily activities, it’s time to consult a healthcare professional,” they can help figure out what to do next.

Quality of Life Considerations

A deviated septum can really affect how you live your life. If you’re always in pain, have trouble doing everyday things, or feel uncomfortable all the time, you should get medical help. Treating a deviated septum is about more than just fixing symptoms; it’s about improving your life.

“The goal of treatment is not just to alleviate symptoms but to improve overall well-being.”

Emergency Warning Signs

In some cases, a deviated septum can be a serious emergency. If you have severe nosebleeds, intense facial pain, or trouble breathing, you need to go to the hospital right away. These signs can mean you have a more serious problem that needs quick treatment.

Emergency warning signs include:

• Severe nosebleeds
• Intense facial pain or pressure
• Difficulty breathing

Knowing when to get medical help for a deviated septum is key for your health. By paying attention to how severe your symptoms are, how they affect your daily life, and any emergency signs, you can take the right steps to get better.

Professional Diagnosis Methods

ENT specialists use different methods to check for a deviated septum. It’s important to get a correct diagnosis to choose the right treatment.

Physical Examination by ENT Specialists

An ENT specialist usually starts with a physical check. They look into the nasal passages to see if there are any problems.

Nasal Endoscopy Procedure

A nasal endoscopy is used for a closer look. A flexible or rigid endoscope is put into the nasal cavity. This lets them see the nasal passages and sinuses clearly.

Advanced Imaging Techniques

Advanced imaging techniques like CT scans might be needed. They give a detailed view of the nasal passages and sinuses. This helps understand how big the deviation is and if there are other issues.

Differential Diagnosis Process

The differential diagnosis process helps rule out other conditions. It involves looking at the patient’s symptoms and test results. This confirms if a deviated septum is present.

Differentiating from Other Nasal Conditions

It’s important to tell a deviated septum apart from other nasal issues. A deviated septum can make breathing hard, but other problems can also cause similar symptoms. So, figuring out the exact cause is key.

Nasal Polyps vs. Deviated Septum

Nasal polyps grow in the nasal passages and block airflow. They are different from a deviated septum, which is a structural problem. Polyps are linked to chronic inflammation and can be seen in chronic rhinosinusitis. Key differences include:

• Nasal polyps are usually found on both sides, while a deviated septum mainly affects one side.
• Polyps often lead to a loss of smell, which is rare in deviated septum cases.
• Polyps might get better with medicine like corticosteroids, but a deviated septum usually needs surgery.

Chronic Sinusitis Symptoms

Chronic sinusitis means the sinuses are always inflamed, causing nasal congestion, facial pain, and thick discharge. Some symptoms are the same as a deviated septum, but chronic sinusitis is an inflammation issue. Notable distinctions include:

• Chronic sinusitis often leads to recurring infections, which a deviated septum doesn’t cause.
• Purulent discharge points more to sinusitis than a deviated septum.
• CT scans can show sinus mucosal thickening, helping to tell the two apart.

Allergic Rhinitis Comparison

Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction in the nasal passages, causing sneezing, itching, and congestion. It can block the nose like a deviated septum, but it’s caused by different things. Key differences include:

• Allergic rhinitis often makes the eyes and throat itch, which isn’t common in deviated septum.
• Allergens trigger allergic rhinitis, while a deviated septum is a structural issue.
• Allergic rhinitis is treated with antihistamines or immunotherapy, not surgery like a deviated septum.

Nasal Valve Collapse Signs

Nasal valve collapse is when the nasal valve area weakens or collapses, causing obstruction. It can happen with a deviated septum and share some symptoms. Important distinctions include:

• Nasal valve collapse makes breathing worse with each breath in.
• It might be linked to external nasal deformities or past nasal surgeries.
• Diagnosis needs specific tests like the Cottle maneuver to check the nasal valve.

Knowing these differences helps doctors give better diagnoses and treatments for breathing problems.

Conclusion: Next Steps After Diagnosis

Getting a diagnosis of a deviated septum is a big step towards fixing breathing problems and other symptoms. It can be tough to know what to do next, but it’s important to understand your options.

Places like the Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic say treatment can be non-surgical or surgery. The choice depends on how bad the deviation is and how it affects your life.

For mild cases, treatments like nasal decongestants or antihistamines might help. But for serious cases, surgery might be needed. Knowing how to treat a deviated septum well is important for feeling better.

After you find out you have a deviated septum, you’ll likely talk to an ENT specialist. They’ll help figure out the best treatment for you. This might include looking inside your nose with a special tool.

Acting quickly to treat your deviated septum can really improve your life. By looking into your options and working with your doctor, you can breathe better and feel healthier.

FAQ

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, September 25). Sinus Infection (Sinusitis). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/sinus-infection.html