A deviated septum happens when the nasal septum—the thin wall that separates the two nostrils—is shifted off-center. This can make one nasal passage narrower than the other. While up to 80% of people may have some degree of nasal septum deviation, not all experience symptoms. For those who do, the condition can cause chronic breathing difficulties, frequent sinus infections, headaches, nosebleeds, and sleep disturbances.

Chronic Nasal Congestion

A deviated septum can restrict airflow, leaving one or both nostrils feeling persistently blocked. This often forces mouth breathing, which may lead to dry mouth and sore throat.

Frequent Sinus Infections

When mucus cannot drain properly due to obstruction, irritants and bacteria accumulate, leading to recurrent sinus infections or chronic sinusitis. Symptoms may include:

  • Facial pressure

  • Nasal drip down the throat (post-nasal drip)

  • Persistent runny nose

Facial Pressure or Pain

Blocked mucus drainage in the sinuses can cause pain or tenderness around the cheeks, nose, and eyes. This discomfort is often worse when bending forward or lying down.

Headaches

A deviated septum can press against nasal tissues or turbinates, irritating nearby nerves. Chronic congestion may also trigger dull, throbbing headaches, particularly in the forehead and around the eyes.

Nosebleeds

Uneven airflow dries out the nasal passages, making delicate blood vessels prone to cracking. This explains why people with a deviated septum often experience frequent nosebleeds, especially during dry weather.

Sleep Problems

Restricted airflow can contribute to snoring and, in more severe cases, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—a condition that interrupts breathing during sleep. OSA increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and chronic fatigue.

Changes in Smell and Taste

A deviated septum may interfere with olfactory receptors that detect odors, reducing the sense of smell. Since taste is closely linked to smell, food may also taste bland or flavors may be harder to distinguish.

Symptoms in Children

A deviated septum may be present from birth or caused by injury. Symptoms in children include:

  • Persistent mouth breathing

  • Noisy breathing or snoring

  • Frequent nosebleeds

  • Recurrent sinus infections

  • Reduced sense of smell or taste

When To See a Healthcare Provider

You should seek medical advice if you experience:

  • Chronic nasal congestion (especially one-sided)

  • Recurrent sinus infections

  • Difficulty breathing through the nose

  • Frequent nosebleeds

  • Sleep disturbances or daytime fatigue

A Quick Review

A deviated septum is a misalignment of the nasal septum that can cause blocked breathing, sinus infections, headaches, nosebleeds, poor sleep, and reduced sense of smell or taste. If these symptoms affect your quality of life, a healthcare provider can recommend treatments—from medications to surgery—to restore better breathing.