How do I know if I have a deviated septum

The septum is the wall that divides the left and the right sides of the nose. It is very common for that wall to not be completely straight, with over 80% of the population having some sort of deviation. A deviated septum may be something that you were born with, or may be the result of trauma or a sports injury. A septum that is not straight may decrease how much space exists in one or both sides of the nose, which can lead to stuffy nose, feelings of congestion, and chronic mouth-breathing. A stuffy nose caused by a deviated septum may be worse in people with allergies or those who have chronic or recurrent nose and sinus issues.

Testing to know if you have a deviated septum

Comprehensive ear, nose and throat examination involving a possible camera evaluation (endoscopy) of the nose and sinuses. A thorough physical examination will allow us to determine if the septum is deviated. Once we have confirmed a deviation, a careful evaluation is performed to visualize the site and degree of deviation. The examination also allows us to evaluate for other things that may be contributing to nasal congestion, such as turbinate swelling (hypertrophy), allergies, and recurrent or chronic infections.

Who is a good candidate for evaluation of a deviated septum?

Anyone with a persistent or recurrent stuffy nose is a good candidate for a careful examination of the nose and sinuses.