Top Signs of a Deviated Septum

Have you ever heard of a deviated septum? It’s a common condition that could be making it harder for you to breathe and lead to other health problems. Dr. Vandana Kumra of ENT New York is an ear, nose, and throat specialist who treats patients of all ages with a deviated septum in Manhattan and the surrounding areas. Learn more about this common condition and when to seek treatment.

What is a deviated septum?

The nasal septum is a thin wall between your nasal passages. When the septum is misaligned or off-center, it causes one nasal passage to be smaller than the other. Some people are born with this common condition, but sports injuries and car accidents can cause it, too. Either way, you may find it harder to breathe through one nostril on a daily basis. You may notice it even more if you suffer from allergies or have a bad cold.

Top signs of a deviated septum

In addition to the telltale sign of having trouble breathing through one side of your nose, you could have frequent nosebleeds if the inside of your nasal passages are dry and crusty. And you could also suffer from frequent sinus headaches caused by the buildup of pressure. 

Other symptoms of a deviated septum include:

• Chronic sinus pain or pressure, especially on one side
• A dry mouth if you have to breathe through your mouth because your nose is clogged
• Facial pain, especially on one side
• A stuffy nose that leads to headaches
• Post-nasal drip because your nasal passages can’t drain properly
• Loud breathing and snoring
• Sleeping with your head elevated or on one side to relieve symptoms

People with a deviated septum may also get sinus infections often. This happens when the sinuses can’t drain properly and bacteria grow in the sinus cavities. If you have one or more of these symptoms, you may have a deviated septum.

Is it time to seek treatment?

If you’re having trouble breathing, frequent sinus headaches, or a bloody nose, it’s time to seek help. When you come to our office to see Dr. Kumra, she performs a physical exam and lets you know if you have a deviated septum and how to treat it. Depending on the severity of your condition, she may prescribe nasal decongestants, antihistamines, steroid nasal sprays, or you may need surgery. But don’t worry, surgery to correct a deviated septum — called septoplasty — is usually a minor, minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Kumra explains everything and discusses all your options.

Let us help you breathe better to improve your quality of life. Book a consultation for a deviated septum online or call 646-859-6136 today.