Snoring is often dismissed as a harmless nuisance, but in some cases, it can be a sign of an underlying nasal issue, such as a deviated nasal septum.
A deviated nasal septum can impair airflow, forcing mouth breathing during sleep and increasing the likelihood of snoring. If you have tried lifestyle changes or allergy management with little improvement, it might be time to consult an ENT specialist.
What Is a Deviated Nasal Septum?
A deviated nasal septum occurs when the thin wall that divides your nasal cavity, called the septum, is misaligned or displaced from the centre. This structure, made of bone and cartilage, should ideally sit straight to allow balanced airflow through both nostrils. However, in many individuals, the septum leans to one side or even curves in an S-shape, reducing airflow on one or both sides.
It disrupts the normal flow of air through the nasal passages. This turbulence increases resistance, forcing individuals to breathe through their mouths, particularly at night.
A deviated septum can stem from various causes, including:
- Congenital Condition: Some individuals are born with a deviated septum due to natural variations in development or as a result of trauma experienced during delivery.
- Injury: External injuries to the nose, such as those sustained from sports, road accidents, or physical altercations, are common causes of septal deviation.
- Ageing: For others, a deviated septum may develop gradually over time as part of the natural growth process and the maturation of facial bones.
What Are The Symptoms of a Deviated Nasal Septum?
While some people may not even realise they have a deviation, others experience persistent issues that interfere with daily life and sleep quality. The symptoms can be subtle or disruptive, depending on how severely the septum is displaced and whether other conditions, like allergies or sinus infections, are present.
Here are some of the common signs and symptoms of a deviated nasal septum:
- Snoring and Disrupted Sleep: Restricted airflow through the nose can worsen snoring and disturb sleep cycles. In some cases, it may even contribute to or aggravate sleep apnea. This results in poor-quality sleep and daytime tiredness.
- Nosebleeds: When airflow is restricted, the nasal lining can dry out and become irritated. This dryness increases the risk of bleeding, particularly in dry climates or air-conditioned environments.
- Dry Mouth: Breathing through the mouth, particularly at night, often leads to waking up with a dry, uncomfortable mouth or sore throat.
- Post-nasal Drip: You might notice a sensation of mucus dripping down the back of your throat. This is often more noticeable at night and can lead to coughing or throat clearing.
- Visible Nasal Deformity: In more severe cases, the nose may appear crooked or off-centre. While not always accompanied by symptoms, this cosmetic issue can be another clue pointing to septal deviation.
- Ear Pressure or Clogged Sensation: Individuals with significant nasal blockage report a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears. This may be linked to Eustachian tube dysfunction secondary to poor nasal ventilation.
How Does a Deviated Nasal Septum Contribute to Snoring?
When one nasal passage is narrower than the other, airflow becomes restricted. This restriction creates turbulence in the upper airway, increasing the likelihood of vibrations in surrounding tissues such as the soft palate or uvula. The narrower the passage, the more intense the airflow disruption, and the louder the snoring tends to be.
In some people, the deviation is severe enough to obstruct both nostrils, especially if the septum takes on a curved or S-shaped form. In such cases, the body compensates by relying on mouth breathing, which dries the throat and increases the risk of sleep fragmentation and gasping episodes.
How to Diagnose Deviated Nasal Septum Causing Snoring
A deviated septum is diagnosed through a physical examination by an ENT specialist. The doctor will inspect the inside of the nose using a nasal speculum and possibly a small endoscope to assess the alignment of the nasal septum. In some cases, imaging such as a CT scan may be ordered to evaluate the severity of the deviation and to rule out other structural issues contributing to nasal obstruction.
If the patient presents with symptoms like persistent snoring, mouth breathing, or difficulty breathing through one side of the nose, a deviated septum may then be identified as a contributing factor.
How is a Deviated Nasal Septum Causing Snoring Treated?
When snoring is caused by a deviated septum, treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms. Mild cases may be managed with conservative therapies such as nasal steroid sprays, decongestants, or nasal dilators to reduce swelling and improve airflow.
However, for patients with significant obstruction or persistent snoring that disrupts sleep, a surgical procedure called septoplasty may be recommended. Septoplasty straightens the nasal septum by removing or reshaping the deviated portions of cartilage and bone, thereby restoring proper airflow and potentially reducing or eliminating snoring.
If you suspect you have a deviated septum, consulting an ENT specialist is recommended. They can accurately diagnose your condition and discuss personalised treatment options to help you breathe and sleep better. You may contact Dr Barrie Tan to schedule an appointment.
