Deviated Nasal Septum: Symptoms & Surgical Options

Breathing should feel effortless—something you don’t even have to think about. But if one side of your nose always feels blocked, or you wake up tired despite a full night’s sleep, a Deviated Nasal Septum could be the hidden culprit.

At Central Hospital Sharjah, our ENT specialists often meet patients who’ve lived with these symptoms for years, assuming it’s “just allergies” or “normal congestion.” The good news? DNS is common, diagnosable, and highly treatable.

What Is a Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS)?

Inside your nose is a thin wall of cartilage and bone called the nasal septum.
Its job is simple—divide your nasal cavity into two equal passages so air can flow smoothly.

When this wall shifts to one side, it’s called a deviated nasal septum.
Some deviations are mild and barely noticeable. Others can significantly block airflow.

Think of it like a slightly crooked doorway. You can still walk through, but it’s not exactly comfortable.

Why Is DNS Such a Common ENT Condition?

DNS is more common than you might think.
In fact, many people are born with it and don’t realize it until symptoms start interfering with daily life.

Others develop it later due to injuries, sports accidents, or even minor trauma that seemed harmless at the time.

Common Causes of Deviated Nasal Septum

• Congenital (From Birth)

Some people are born with a deviated septum due to natural development in the womb.

• Nasal Injury or Trauma

A fall, car accident, or sports injury can easily shift the septum out of place.

• Age-Related Changes

As we age, the nasal structures can change slightly, worsening an existing deviation.

Symptoms of Deviated Nasal Septum

Not everyone with DNS has symptoms. But when they do show up, they’re hard to ignore.

Common signs include:

Persistent nasal blockage on one or both sides
Difficulty breathing through the nose
Frequent sinus infections or facial pressure
Recurrent nosebleeds
Headaches or facial pain
Loud snoring or disturbed sleep

If you’re constantly reaching for nasal sprays or breathing through your mouth, it’s time to take notice.

How Deviated Nasal Septum Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis is straightforward and painless.

At Central Hospital Sharjah, an ENT specialist will:

Review your symptoms and medical history
Perform a physical examination of the nose
Use nasal endoscopy to clearly view the septum
Recommend imaging tests only if needed

No guesswork—just a clear plan.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options (Temporary Relief)

For mild cases, medications may help manage symptoms, but they don’t fix the deviation.

These may include:

Nasal sprays to reduce swelling
Decongestants for short-term relief
Antihistamines if allergies are involved

If symptoms persist despite medication, surgery becomes the most effective solution.

Surgical Treatment for Deviated Nasal Septum

Septoplasty: The Definitive Solution

Septoplasty is a safe and commonly performed procedure to correct DNS.

What Is Septoplasty?

It’s a surgical procedure that straightens the nasal septum, improving airflow.

Who Needs Surgery?

Patients with ongoing breathing issues, frequent sinus infections, or sleep disturbances.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

The surgery is done through the nose, with no visible scars. The septum is repositioned for better airflow.

Duration of Surgery

Most septoplasty procedures take about 60–90 minutes.

Benefits of Septoplasty Surgery

Patients often say, “I didn’t realize how bad my breathing was until it improved.”

Key benefits include:

Easier, more natural breathing
Fewer sinus infections
Better sleep quality
Reduced snoring
Improved overall quality of life

Recovery After Septoplasty

Recovery is usually smooth and predictable.

Most patients go home the same day
Mild swelling or congestion is normal initially
Normal activities resume within a week
Complete healing occurs over a few weeks

Following your ENT’s post-surgery instructions makes all the difference.

Possible Risks and Complications

Like any surgery, septoplasty has minimal risks.