Deviated Nasal Septum

Displacement of the nasal septum producing nasal obstruction, breathing difficulty, and sinonasal symptoms.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Published: February 1, 2026

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department. Book Appointment →

What is Deviated Nasal Septum?

The nasal septum is a midline cartilaginous and bony partition dividing the nasal cavity; deviations are either developmental or traumatic.

Deviation may involve cartilage, vomer, perpendicular plate of the ethmoid, or maxillary crest and is often associated with turbinate hypertrophy on the concave side.

Most deviations are asymptomatic; clinically significant obstruction arises when airflow dynamics are compromised.

Diagnosis is made by anterior rhinoscopy and nasal endoscopy; CT may be used when considering combined sinus surgery.

Symptoms

Unilateral or alternating nasal obstruction

Mouth breathing and sleep-disordered breathing or snoring

Recurrent sinusitis and postnasal drip

Facial pressure and headache

Recurrent epistaxis from the deviated spur

Hyposmia and dry mouth or sore throat from mouth breathing

Risk Factors

Nasal trauma, including birth trauma

Previous nasal fracture or sports injuries

Congenital or developmental asymmetry

Chronic turbinate hypertrophy or allergic rhinitis

Connective tissue disorders in rare cases

Prior nasal surgery with suboptimal result

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Persistent nasal obstruction interfering with sleep, exercise, or work
Recurrent sinus infections or epistaxis
Obstruction that fails medical therapy for rhinitis or rhinosinusitis

Treatment Methods

Medical management of allergic rhinitis or rhinosinusitis as initial step

Intranasal corticosteroids and saline irrigation to reduce mucosal swelling

Nasal dilators or positional sleep strategies for mild symptoms

Septoplasty for symptomatic moderate-severe deviation

Septoplasty combined with turbinate reduction and/or functional rhinoplasty as needed

Postoperative nasal care with saline rinses and follow-up endoscopy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.