Nasal septum deviation

Overview

A deviated nasal septum happens when the thin wall between the two sides of the nose, also known as the nasal septum, is pushed to one side. This condition can happen before birth. A nose injury also is a common cause.

Symptoms

Symptoms can include blocked nostrils, nosebleeds and noisy breathing during sleep. There also can be face pain. The person may tend to sleep on one side to make breathing easier.

Treatments

Treatments to ease symptoms include medicines to lessen nasal swelling, also known as decongestants; medicines to lessen allergy symptoms, also known as antihistamines; and prescription nasal steroid sprays. Surgery can fix the septum.