You may not have noticed it, but this small part can affect our breathing, health, and even quality of life. Let's demystify a deviated septum and understand its potential effects on our body.
What is a deviated nasal septum?
First, let's understand what exactly a deviated septum is. The nasal septum is a piece of cartilage and bone that separates the nasal cavity** and plays an important role in maintaining the shape of the nasal cavity and supporting the structure of the nose. However, for a variety of reasons, the nasal septum may be deviated, leading to asymmetry. This condition can be innate, or it can be caused by an acquired injury or other factors. A deviated septum is not only a matter of appearance, but can also affect our respiratory function.
Symptoms and effects of a deviated septum.
Frequent nasal congestion.
A deviated septum causes the nasal passages to narrow, blocking the normal airflow passages, the most direct manifestation of which is nasal congestion. This not only makes it difficult to breathe, but also makes us feel uncomfortable in our daily lives, affecting our appetite and oral hygiene.
Shortness of breath. As airflow is blocked, the body may need more effort to ensure that enough oxygen enters the lungs, resulting in shortness of breath. This puts an increased strain on the body and can easily cause feelings of fatigue, especially during sports or physical activity.
Headache. Nasal congestion and poor breathing due to a deviated septum can cause headaches. This is a physiological reaction caused by the impossibility of blood circulation and insufficient oxygen supply. Persistent headaches may reduce quality of life and affect work and school productivity.
Decreased sleep quality.
A deviated septum may be more pronounced at night, as the narrowing of the nasal passages may be more noticeable when we lie down. This leads to a decrease in sleep quality, prone to snoring, dreaming, waking up easily and other problems, which can have a negative impact on physical health in the long run.
Causes of a deviated septum.
Genetic factors. Some people may be born with a narrow or asymmetrical septum, which may run in families. If someone in the family suffers from a deviated septum, then the risk of developing the disease may increase for the individual.
Trauma. Trauma is one of the most common causes of a deviated septum. Falls, car accidents, accidental collisions during sports, etc., can cause damage and deviation of the nasal septum. Even minor injuries as children can gradually become problematic in adulthood.
Nasal infections. Chronic nasal infections, especially if not properly treated, can lead to damage to the tissues of the nasal septum. These injuries may eventually lead to deviation. Therefore, prompt nasal infections are essential to prevent a deviated septum.
Excessive use of nasal sprays.
Some people habitually overuse nasal sprays to relieve symptoms of nasal congestion. However, prolonged overuse may lead to swelling and damage to the nasal tissues, which in turn can affect the normal structure of the nasal septum and cause deviation.
If you suspect that you may have a deviated septum, you should seek medical attention. Depending on the severity of the condition, the doctor will formulate a personalized plan for different cases. It is important not to ignore this issue, as timely treatment can effectively alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.