Deviated Septum

A deviated septum is a condition where the nasal septum, the structure that divides the nasal cavity into two nostrils, is significantly off-center or crooked. This condition may cause breathing difficulties, nasal congestion, frequent nosebleeds, sinus infections, and other related symptoms.

At Kimball Health Services, we offer comprehensive care for a deviated septum after a thorough diagnosis of your symptoms. We address deviated septums with treatments such as decongestants, antihistamines, or nasal steroid sprays. Additionally, our board-certified ENT surgeon, Dr. William O. Dickey offers surgical interventions for severe cases. 

Our team ensures that throughout the treatment and after, compassionate support and care are provided to restore normal breathing and improve your overall quality of life.

A deviated septum occurs when the nasal septum is displaced to one side, making one nasal passage smaller than the other. The nasal septum is composed of bone and cartilage. It divides the nasal cavity into two separate chambers, ideally positioned in the center, to allow equal airflow through each nostril.

A deviated septum can lead to an uneven nasal cavity, causing obstruction in one or both nostrils. When the septum is severely crooked, it can also cause breathing difficulties by blocking one side of the nose and reducing airflow. 

Most cases of septal displacement do not show symptoms. However, severe septal deformities may change the shape of the nose. Other deviated septum symptoms may include:

• Difficulty breathing through your nostrils
• Nasal obstruction
• Nosebleeds
• Headaches
• Facial pain
• Noisy breathing 
• Snoring

If a severely deviated septum goes untreated, you may develop complications such as:

• Sleep apnea
• Chronic sinus issues
• Dry mouth or xerostomia due to chronic mouth breathing

A deviated septum can result from several causes, including:

• Congenital condition: Many people are born with a deviated septum.
• Injury or trauma: A blow to the nose from sports, accidents, falls, or physical altercations can cause the septum to deviate. 
• Developmental factors: As a child grows, the septum may not develop evenly, leading to a deviation. 

During your visit, Dr. Dickey is likely to discuss your symptoms and perform a physical examination.

The inside of your nose is examined using a bright light and he may employ an instrument to widen your nostrils gently for better viewing. He may use a long, tube-shaped scope with a bright light at the tip to check farther back in your nasal passage. 

Additionally, Dr. Dickey observes your nasal tissues both before and after applying a decongestant spray to look for a deviated septum and assess the severity of your condition.

Depending on the severity of the deviated septum, Dr. Dickey may recommend medications or surgical intervention. Medications help with mild symptoms. However, if a deviated nasal septum keeps you from breathing properly, you may need a surgical intervention.

At Kimball Health Services, we assess your symptoms and the severity of the deviated septum before tailoring a personalized treatment. In case of surgery, our team also provides post-procedure support and guidance to ensure proper healing.

As one of the top critical access hospitals in the nation, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. 

In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. For appointments, call us at 308-235-1966 or request an appointment online. We're here for you whenever you need us.