Septal Deviation

Septal deviation is an abnormal bend in the wall between the nasal passages. This can cause obstruction and breathing difficulties.

SEPTAL DEVIATIONS

What Is a Deviated Septum?

The nasal septum is the wall of cartilage and bone that divides your nasal cavity into two nostrils. When this wall is off-center or crooked, it’s called a deviated septum. In some people, this condition is present from birth. In others, it results from injury or trauma to the nose.

A septal deviation can partially or completely block airflow in one or both nostrils, leading to chronic nasal obstruction and sinus issues. At Atkins Sinus, we help patients in Montreal and beyond breathe easier through advanced diagnosis and personalized treatment.

SEPTAL DEVIATIONS

Common Symptoms of a Deviated Septum

Mild septal deviations may not cause any noticeable issues, but when symptoms occur, they can significantly impact quality of life.

You Might Have a Deviated Septum If You Experience:

  • Chronic nasal congestion, especially on one side
  • Frequent sinus infections or sinus pressure
  • Difficulty breathing through your nose
  • Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
  • Frequent nosebleeds
  • Facial pain or headaches, often related to sinus pressure
  • Postnasal drip or persistent throat clearing
  • Dry mouth, especially if you’re mouth breathing at night

If you’re constantly congested or feel like one side of your nose is always blocked, it may be time to see a sinus specialist.

SEPTAL DEVIATIONS

How Is a Deviated Septum Diagnosed?

At Atkins Sinus, we use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate the nasal passages and determine the severity of the deviation.

Diagnostic Steps May Include:

  • Physical examination – Using a nasal speculum and light to inspect internal nasal structure
  • Nasal endoscopy – A small camera is used to view inside the nose and sinus openings
  • CT scan Provides a detailed look at the septum and sinus anatomy

These tools help us determine if a septal deviation is contributing to your symptoms or other conditions like chronic sinusitis or sleep apnea.

SEPTAL DEVIATIONS

Treatment Options for Septal Deviation

The right treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms and how much the deviation affects your breathing or sinus function.

Treatment May Include:

  • Medications – To reduce inflammation and improve airflow (e.g., nasal corticosteroids, decongestants)
  • Septoplasty surgery – A corrective procedure to straighten the nasal septum and improve airflow
  • Turbinate reduction – May be performed alongside septoplasty to optimize breathing
  • Combined procedures – If you’re also dealing with nasal polyps, sinusitis, or other structural issues

At Atkins Sinus, our ENT specialists perform minimally invasive septoplasty procedures tailored to your needs, often with a quick recovery timeline.

SEPTAL DEVIATIONS

What Causes Septal Deviation?

Common Causes Include:

  • Congenital deviation – Born with a crooked septum
  • Nasal trauma – Sports injuries, accidents, or childhood falls
  • Previous nasal surgery – May lead to post-operative deviation
  • Natural aging – Can shift the nasal structure over time

When to See a Specialist

If you’re experiencing chronic nasal congestion, frequent sinus infections, or breathing difficulties — especially on one side — don’t ignore the signs. A deviated septum is a treatable condition, and effective solutions are available.

Book a consultation with the team at Atkins Sinus to find out if septoplasty or another treatment is right for you.

Meet the team

Atkins Sinus Expert Care is committed to providing personalized care, cutting-edge equipment, and a level of experience you won't find elsewhere.

  • James Atkins, MD

    Sinus Specialist, Founder of Atkins Expert Sinus Care

  • James M. Ferris, PA

    Physician Assistant

Your first visit with us

  • Step 1

    Book your visit

    Book through our online patient portal and let us know some of the symptoms you’re experiencing.

  • Step 2

    Visit our office

    Dr. Atkins will review your symptoms at your visit and decide what diagnostic tests are needed to get to the root of your problem.

  • Step 3

    Care plan

    Once the diagnostic tests are done, Dr. Atkins will review them and make a plan of care for you. At that time, he will discuss whether you are a candidate for one of our procedures.

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