Deviated nasal septum: Causes, symptoms and effective solutions

17/10/25
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Do you often have nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, snoring or recurrent sinusitis? This could be a sign of a deviated nasal septum, a fairly common condition that few people pay attention to. Not only does it cause discomfort in daily life, but it also directly affects respiratory health and sleep quality. So what is a deviated nasal septum? Is it dangerous? How to treat it effectively and safely? Let’s find out more in the article below with HBIO Clinic.

Deviated nasal septum

What is a deviated nasal septum?

The nasal septum is a thin structure of cartilage and bone located between the two nostrils, which plays a role in dividing and regulating the flow of air when breathing. When the septum is deviated, one side of the nose will be narrower, causing difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, and even leading to many respiratory diseases.
Deviated nasal septum and normal septum
Deviated nasal septum and normal septum
According to statistics, more than 70% of the population has a deviated nasal septum in different forms, but only about 20-30% need medical intervention. That shows that this is a very common condition but is easily overlooked until it causes obvious effects.

Causes of deviated nasal septum

There are many causes leading to this condition, the most common of which are:
  • Congenital: Some people are born with an unbalanced, curved or slightly deviated septum structure. As adults, this condition may become more obvious.
  • Nasal trauma: Traffic accidents, playing high-impact sports or trauma in daily life can all cause a deviated nasal septum.
  • Abnormal development during growth: When the face and nasal bones develop unevenly, the nasal septum can also become deviated.
  • Other causes: Some cases may be related to previous nasal surgery, nasal polyps, or other diseases that affect the sinus-nasal structure.

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Common symptoms of a deviated nasal septum

Not everyone with a deviated nasal septum has obvious symptoms. However, common signs include:
  • Prolonged nasal congestion: One side of the nose is often blocked, especially when lying down to sleep.
  • Snoring, sleep apnea: Poor airflow causes the patient to snore loudly and become tired easily.
  • Nosebleeds: The mucous membranes are dry and vulnerable.
  • Facial pain: Usually concentrated in the forehead, eye sockets, or sinuses.
  • Recurrent sinusitis: Due to stagnant nasal fluid, bacteria can easily grow.
  • Less sense of smell: Decreased ability to smell, affecting eating and daily activities.
Common types of crooked noses
Common types of crooked noses

Is a deviated nasal septum dangerous?

Most cases of mild deviated nasal septum do not cause major effects. However, if the condition is severe, the disease can lead to many consequences:
  • Prolonged snoring, sleep apnea, reduced sleep quality.
  • Increased risk of allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis.
  • Causes fatigue, memory loss, affects study and work.
  • Some cases can cause aesthetic deformation of the nose.

How to treat a deviated nasal septum

Treatment depends on the degree of deviation and the patient’s symptoms.

Using medication to help reduce symptoms caused by a deviated nasal septum

Using medication in the treatment of a deviated nasal septum is only supportive, helping to improve accompanying symptoms such as sinusitis, nasal congestion or allergic rhinitis.
Some commonly prescribed groups of drugs include:
  • Corticosteroid sprays: Reduce swelling of the mucous membranes, limit nasal discharge.
  • Nasal drops: Clear the airways, reduce swelling of the nasal tissue.
  • Antihistamines: Control allergic reactions, reduce sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion.
These drugs help you breathe easier but cannot completely cure a deviated nasal septum.

Nasal septum surgery

In cases where the medication is no longer effective, the doctor often prescribes nasal septum surgery to completely correct this condition. The patient will be anesthetized, the surgery will be safe and can be discharged after about 1 day if the health is stable.
Illustration of deviated nose surgery
Illustration of deviated nose surgery
After surgery, some symptoms such as mild nasal congestion can last 2-3 days. To recover quickly, patients should rinse their nose properly, avoid blowing their nose hard, and do not point fans or air conditioners directly at their faces. During the first week, it is necessary to limit strenuous exercise, but can go back to school or work after 2-3 days if they feel comfortable.
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Modern nose thread lift solution at HBIO Clinic

Instead of having to undergo complicated surgeries, at HBIO Clinic, customers can choose nose thread lift to shape the septum. This is a technique that uses specialized biological threads to restructure the nose shape, while supporting the natural correction of the septum, minimizing surgical intervention.
Nose thread lift and septum shaping
Nose thread lift and septum shaping
This method not only helps improve the difficulty breathing and nasal congestion caused by a deviated septum, but also gives a high, slim nose that is in harmony with the face. With a quick implementation time (about 30-45 minutes), no need for long-term recovery, customers can return to normal activities immediately after the procedure.
At HBIO Clinic, each nose thread lift is performed by a team of experienced doctors, combining advanced technology systems and standard medical procedures, bringing safe – durable – beautiful – natural results.
Before and after images of nasal septum correction
Before and after images of nasal septum correction
Although a deviated nasal septum is not common, it should not be taken lightly, as it can seriously affect respiratory health and quality of life. If you are experiencing this condition, come to HBIO Clinic – Facial Skincare & Spa for examination and choose the optimal treatment solution.
  • Phone: 0947 697 795
  • Maps: 24 Truong Han Sieu, Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
  • Zalo: 0947.697.795

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Dr. Thai Nguyen – Founder and Medical Director of HBIO Clinic. As an expert in aesthetic dermatology, she regularly shares in-depth knowledge and practical experience to provide valuable and insightful information for those seeking better skin health.