Patient education: Deviated septum (The Basics)

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What is a deviated septum? —

The septum is the wall separating the 2 nostrils of the nose. It is made up of bone and a rubbery material called "cartilage." When the septum is crooked, it is called a "deviated septum."

The septum is fragile. Even a slight bump or injury to the nose can make the septum crooked. In babies, it can get damaged during birth.

What are the symptoms of a deviated septum? —

Symptoms include:

●Stuffy nose, especially on 1 side

●Trouble sleeping

●Trouble breathing through the nose

Many people have a slightly crooked septum that causes no problems.

Should I see a doctor or nurse? —

If your nose always feels stuffy and you have trouble breathing, see your doctor or nurse. There are many things that can cause these symptoms, and it is important to find out what it is.

Will I need tests? —

Maybe. Your doctor or nurse will talk to you about your symptoms and do an exam. They will look into your nose using a tool with a light on it.

They might also suggest that you have tests, such as:

●Nasal endoscopy – The doctor uses a flexible tube called an "endoscope" to look deep into your nose to see if there are any problems.

●CT scan – This is an imaging test that takes a picture of the inside of your nose and sinuses. The sinuses are hollow areas in the bones of the face, near the nose.

How is a deviated septum treated? —

Many people do not need treatment. But if you have a badly deviated septum, your doctor or nurse might suggest a surgery called "septoplasty." This straightens the crooked septum.

More on this topic

Patient education: Septoplasty (The Basics)

Patient education: Chronic rhinosinusitis (Beyond the Basics)

This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: May 11, 2025.

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Patient education: Deviated septum (The Basics)