Can a Deviated Septum Cause Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, which can lead to a variety of health problems if left untreated. While there are many factors that can contribute to sleep apnea, one potential cause that is often overlooked is a deviated septum.
What is a Deviated Septum?
The septum is the wall of cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils in the nose. In some people, the septum is not perfectly centered, which is known as a deviated septum. This can cause one nostril to be smaller than the other, or it can cause the septum to protrude into one of the nostrils. While a deviated septum is a common condition, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including difficulty breathing, nosebleeds, and sinus infections.
Can a Deviated Septum Cause Sleep Apnea?
A deviated septum can cause sleep apnea in a couple of different ways. First, if the septum is protruding into one of the nostrils, it can make it difficult to breathe through that nostril. This can cause the person to breathe through their mouth instead, which can lead to snoring and sleep apnea.
Second, a deviated septum can cause inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages, which can make it difficult to breathe through the nose. This can lead to snoring and sleep apnea as well.
How is a Deviated Septum Diagnosed?
A deviated septum can be diagnosed by an otolaryngologist, also known as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor. The doctor will examine the inside of the nose using a nasal endoscope, which is a thin tube with a camera on the end. This allows the doctor to see the inside of the nose and determine if the septum is deviated.
In some cases, the doctor may also order a CT scan or MRI to get a better view of the nasal passages.
How is a Deviated Septum Treated?
The treatment for a deviated septum depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms that it is causing. In some cases, no treatment is necessary, especially if the symptoms are mild.
If the deviated septum is causing significant breathing problems, the doctor may recommend surgery to correct the issue. The surgery, known as a septoplasty, involves straightening the septum so that it is centered in the nose.
In some cases, the doctor may also recommend a rhinoplasty, which is a cosmetic surgery that can improve the appearance of the nose while also correcting a deviated septum.
Can Treating a Deviated Septum Improve Sleep Apnea?
If a deviated septum is causing or contributing to sleep apnea, correcting the issue can help to improve the condition. By improving the airflow through the nose, it can reduce snoring and the number of apnea episodes during sleep.
However, it is important to note that correcting a deviated septum may not cure sleep apnea entirely. Sleep apnea is a complex condition that can have many different causes, and treating a deviated septum is just one potential solution.
Conclusion
A deviated septum is a common condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including difficulty breathing and sinus infections. In some cases, it can also contribute to sleep apnea by making it difficult to breathe through the nose. If you suspect that you may have a deviated septum, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation. Treatment options, including surgery, can help to improve the condition and potentially
