The nasal septum is a structure of both bone and cartilage that separates the inside of the nose into two airways. It is generally rare for the nasal cavities to be completely symmetrical, and a certain degree of curvature is considered a normal anatomical difference. However, nasal septum deviation (NSD), known as Nasal Bone Curvature, can be congenital and is usually considered a smooth C or S shape.
Nasal bone curvatures that develop due to trauma usually show more pronounced shifts and irregularities. A slight curvature or deviation of the nasal bone is present in many individuals. Mild curvature usually does not cause a serious medical problem. A significant nasal bone curvature can lead to serious health problems.
Curved noses are usually curved inside as well as outside, and nasal curvatures are almost always accompanied by airway problems and breathing difficulties.
What harms does nasal bone curvature (Septoplasty) cause?
Nasal bone curvature can make it difficult to breathe through the nose and can even affect the sense of smell. It can also directly or indirectly cause headaches, sinus infections, high blood pressure, snoring, or sleep apnoea. Doctors can usually diagnose a deviated septum by examining the nose. Imaging tests may also be required for treatment.
When assessing the damages caused by nasal bone curvature, the primary concern is the reduction in the individual's overall quality of life. A study investigated the relationship between nasal bone curvature and sinusitis. Researchers detected nasal curvature in half of the sinusitis patients. More severe nose curvature increases sinusitis risk, according to the same study.
According to research, headaches are more common in people with nasal bone curvature. This may be caused by nasal tissue irritation and difficulty breathing through the nose.
Is nasal bone curvature (deviated septum) a serious issue?
Depending on the severity of the case, it can be concluded that nasal bone curvature can be dangerous both in terms of quality of life (sleep, headache-induced stress, respiratory failure, etc.) and heart and lung health.
Considering the harms, risks, and indications of nasal bone curvature, severe curvature of the nose can cause some dangerous problems. In mild cases of septum deviation, it is also possible to continue daily life without any problems.
Does nasal bone curvature cause headaches?
If the nasal bone curvature is severe, the individual may experience a headache if he/she cannot get enough oxygen.
Can a deviated septum cause heart problems?
Yes, nasal curvature (NSD) can damage the heart. According to a study, pulmonary artery pressure was higher, and the right side of the heart was larger in people with nasal curvature. The finding suggests that nasal curvature may put additional strain on the heart. Researchers recommend that people with nasal congestion should have their heart function checked early. In another study, it was observed that pulmonary artery pressure was high in people with nasal curvature and improved after surgery. This finding suggests that untreated nasal curvature may damage heart health over time.
As a result, nasal curvature can harm the heart if left untreated. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are important.
Can a deviated septum cause lung problems?
Nasal bone curvature can also cause damage to the lungs. Nasal curvature can make breathing difficult and affect lung function by disrupting breathing patterns. To alleviate this condition, doctors may recommend some treatments that reduce nasal congestion. Intranasal cortisone sprays, allergy medicines (antihistamines), and avoiding allergens can help improve airflow. However, if these treatments are not enough, surgery may be required. Research has shown that the lungs can function better after nose curvature surgery. This finding strengthens the belief that nasal curvature can negatively affect lung health.
What happens if nasal bone curvature (deviation) is not fixed?
A deviated septum can be corrected with rhinoplasty surgery. Untreated nasal curvature can lead to numerous health problems over time. Initially, difficulty in nasal breathing can lead to mouth breathing, resulting in a dry throat, snoring, and even obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). In addition, nasal obstruction can impair the sense of smell.
The effect of the curvature on the lungs and heart can also be risky in the long term, as mentioned above. Depending on the patient's condition, treatment of nasal bone curvature may also be important for heart and lung health.
According to research, sinusitis is more common in people with nasal curvature, and the risk of sinusitis increases as the severity of the curvature increases.
Nasal curvature can also cause chronic headaches if left untreated.
As a result, if the nasal curvature is not treated, it may harm the heart and lungs, increase headaches and sinusitis, and deteriorate sleep health. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are important.
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This article is for informational and advisory purposes. The recommendations of your surgeon, who will examine you and perform nose surgery, should be a priority.