Deviated Septum

at Allergy & ENT Associates of Middle TN

A deviated septum occurs when the bone and cartilage dividing the nasal cavity is off-center or crooked. If the deviation is significant, it may cause breathing difficulties and contribute to chronic sinus conditions that require treatment.



At Allergy & ENT Associates, we evaluate nasal obstruction and sinus symptoms to determine whether a deviated septum may be contributing to the problem and to recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

What a Deviated Septum Can Affect

A deviated septum may impact airflow through the nose and can contribute to:


  • Difficulty breathing through the nose
  • Nasal congestion (often worse on one side)
  • Frequent sinus infections
  • Facial pain or pressure
  • Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep


If symptoms are affecting quality of life, evaluation by an ENT specialist is recommended.

What Causes a Deviated Septum?

Most often, a deviated septum is present from birth or develops during fetal growth. In other cases, trauma or injury to the nose causes the septum to become displaced.


This may occur due to:


  • Sports injuries


  • Automobile accidents


  • Other nasal trauma


Occasionally, cartilage in the nasal tip deteriorates with age, which may also contribute to a deviated septum.

Symptoms of a Deviated Septum

A perfectly centered septum is uncommon. It is estimated that about 80 percent of the population has a septum that is off-center to some extent. In many cases, the deviation is mild and causes no symptoms.


More severe cases may lead to symptoms that affect breathing, including:


  • Nasal congestion (often limited to one side)



  • Frequent nosebleeds


  • Sinus infections


  • Facial pain and pressure


  • Headaches


  • Postnasal drip


  • Noisy breathing or snoring during sleep

Treatment Options for a Deviated Septum

If a deviated septum is mild, symptoms may improve with medication. Treatment options may include:


  • Antihistamines



  • Decongestants


  • Nasal steroid sprays


These medications can help reduce congestion and inflammation.


When medication is not effective, a surgical procedure called a septoplasty may be recommended. Septoplasty repositions the septum to improve airflow and breathing. This procedure may involve removing excess bone or cartilage to create more space in the nasal passage and is usually performed as an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia.


In some cases, rhinoplasty (surgery to reshape the nose) may be performed at the same time.

Preventing a Deviated Septum

Not all deviated septums can be prevented, but protecting the nose from injury may help reduce risk. Recommendations include:


  • Wearing a helmet or facial protection during sports


  • Always wearing a seatbelt in motor vehicles

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How common is a deviated septum?

    It is very common. Approximately 80 percent of people have some degree of septal deviation, though most cases are mild and do not cause symptoms.

  • Can a deviated septum cause sinus infections?

    Yes. A deviated septum can contribute to poor drainage and airflow, which may increase the risk of sinus infections in some individuals.

  • When is surgery needed for a deviated septum?

    Surgery may be recommended when symptoms do not improve with medication and nasal obstruction or sinus issues significantly affect breathing and quality of life.

Call Allergy & ENT Associates at (615) 889-8802 to learn more or schedule an appointment.