From the Guidelines
The main risk factors for developing a deviated septum include trauma, congenital factors, aging, genetic conditions, previous nasal surgeries, and chronic inflammation from conditions like rhinitis or sinusitis. These factors can contribute to the displacement of the thin wall between the nasal passages, leading to a deviated septum. According to 1, trauma is the most common etiology of a deviated septum, and the degree of trauma required for clinically significant deviation is inversely related to the patient’s age. Additionally, congenital factors, such as fetal development or complications during childbirth, can also lead to a deviated septum.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the risk factors for a deviated septum include:
- Trauma, including facial injuries from sports, accidents, or physical altercations, can damage the nasal septum and lead to deviation 1
- Congenital factors, such as fetal development or complications during childbirth, can result in a deviated septum 1
- Aging can contribute to septal deviation as cartilage naturally weakens over time 1
- Genetic conditions that affect connective tissue development may predispose individuals to septal deviation
- Previous nasal surgeries can sometimes result in septal deviation as a complication
- Chronic inflammation from conditions like rhinitis or sinusitis may gradually affect septal alignment
It's worth noting that while a deviated septum itself isn't preventable if present from birth, avoiding facial trauma through protective gear during sports and safe driving practices can help prevent injury-related deviations. If symptoms like chronic nasal obstruction, frequent sinus infections, or nosebleeds occur, medical evaluation is recommended as treatments ranging from medications to surgical correction may be necessary 1.
From the Research
Risk Factors for Deviated Septum
- Trauma to the nose, such as nasal fracture, is a significant risk factor for developing a deviated septum 2
- Anatomical irregularities, including a deviated nasal septum, can contribute to the development of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) 3
- Non-congenital etiology may be responsible for nasal septal deviation, as studies have found that nasal septal deviation occurs at a higher frequency in older children and adults 4
- Birth molding pressures during pregnancy or parturition can cause septal deformity, resulting in a deviated nasal septum 5
- Genetic predisposition may also play a role in the development of a deviated nasal septum, although the growth of the septum continues throughout childhood 4
Associated Conditions
- Deviated nasal septum has been linked to various clinical presentations, including headache, rhinosinusitis, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, and breathing sounds 6
- Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has been associated with deviated nasal septum, with mechanisms involving mechanical and aerodynamics theory explaining this relationship 3
- Nasal septal deviation can affect nasal airflow, causing obstruction or impairing olfactory function 6
Demographic Factors
- Nasal septal deviation can occur at any age, with studies finding that a significant proportion of the population has nasal septal deviation of varying degrees 4, 5
- The incidence of septal deformity has been found to be constant at birth and in adults, with varying degrees of septal deformity occurring at a constant rate 5