Can a deviated nasal septum affect breathing?

Yes, a deviated nasal septum can directly affect the efficiency of your breathing. The nasal septum is the wall that divides the nasal cavity into two halves [1]. When this wall shifts from its central position, it can cause obstruction in one or both sides of the nose, making nasal breathing more difficult [4].

How does a deviated nasal septum affect breathing?

The nasal septum is a thin vertical plate composed of cartilage in the front and bone in the back, dividing the nose into left and right sides [4]. When this septum is deviated, it can impede airflow, making breathing through the nose difficult [4]. The nose plays a vital role in filtering, humidifying, and warming air before it reaches the lungs [1]. Any problem in the nose, such as obstruction caused by a deviated septum, can affect the entire body [1].

Common symptoms of a deviated nasal septum

Symptoms of a deviated nasal septum can range from mild to severe, mainly involving difficulty breathing through one or both sides of the nose [4]. This obstruction may lead to a persistent feeling of nasal congestion.

It is important to note that these symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions, such as allergic rhinitis, which requires careful medical evaluation to determine the cause [1].

Diagnosis and treatment options

To diagnose a deviated nasal septum, an ENT specialist performs a clinical examination of the nose. If the obstruction is primarily caused by a deviated nasal septum, the only treatment that can correct it is surgery [4]. This surgery is known as a "septoplasty" and aims to reposition the nasal septum to the center to facilitate breathing [4]. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 30 minutes [4]. In some cases, if the obstruction is also caused by swelling in the nasal lining, treatments such as sprays or drops may help [4].

When should you see a doctor?

If you suffer from persistent difficulty breathing through the nose or nasal congestion that does not improve, it is essential to consult an ENT specialist. The doctor can determine if a deviated nasal septum is the cause or if there are other conditions, such as nasal polyps [1] or choanal atresia in infants [3]. Ignoring chronic breathing problems can affect your quality of life and overall health.

For more information on this topic, you can review our detailed article on Nose injuries and disorders: From epistaxis to a deviated septum (Arabic), where we review additional aspects related to nasal health and upper respiratory system integrity.

Medical references

• Nose Injuries and Disorders
• Septoplasty | Dorset County Hospital
• Choanal atresia