what is a septum

2 min read 10-03-2025

The septum is a crucial part of your nasal anatomy. Understanding its structure and function can help you appreciate its importance in breathing, smell, and overall health. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the nasal septum, covering its anatomy, common issues, and treatment options.

Anatomy of the Nasal Septum

The nasal septum is a wall of cartilage and bone that divides the inside of your nose into two equal chambers. It's located in the middle of your nose, separating the left and right nostrils. Think of it as the dividing line within your nasal cavity.

Components of the Septum:

Vomer: This is a thin, flat bone that forms the lower and posterior (back) part of the septum.
Perpendicular Plate of the Ethmoid Bone: This is a bony plate that forms the upper part of the septum.
Septal Cartilage: This is the main component, a flexible piece of cartilage that makes up most of the visible part of your septum. It's responsible for the shape and flexibility of your nose.

This intricate structure ensures that air is channeled effectively through both sides of your nose.

Function of the Nasal Septum

The primary function of the nasal septum is to divide the nasal cavity, creating two distinct airways. This separation plays several vital roles:

Airflow Regulation: The septum ensures that air flows smoothly through both nostrils. This controlled airflow helps to warm, humidify, and filter the air before it reaches your lungs.
Smell: The olfactory receptors, responsible for your sense of smell, are located in the upper part of the nasal cavity. The septum plays a crucial role in directing air flow towards these receptors for proper smell perception.
Protection: The septum provides structural support to the nasal cavity, protecting delicate tissues and blood vessels.

Deviations and Problems with the Nasal Septum

A deviated septum is a common condition where the nasal septum isn't straight. It may bend or curve to one side, partially blocking one nasal passage. While many people with a deviated septum experience no symptoms, others may suffer from:

Nasal Congestion: The most common symptom. One nostril may be significantly more congested than the other.
Nasal Obstruction: Difficulty breathing through the nose.
Nosebleeds: More frequent due to irritation from the deviated septum.
Sinusitis: A deviated septum can sometimes contribute to or worsen sinus infections.
Sleep Apnea: In some cases, severe septal deviation can contribute to sleep apnea.

Diagnosing Septum Problems

A physical exam is usually sufficient to diagnose issues with the septum. Your doctor will examine your nose to check for any deviations or obstructions. Sometimes, imaging techniques like CT scans may be used for a more detailed view.

Treating Septum Problems

Treatment depends on the severity of the deviation and the presence of symptoms. Many people with minor deviations require no treatment. However, for those experiencing significant issues, surgical correction may be necessary.

Septoplasty:

Septoplasty is a surgical procedure to straighten the nasal septum. It involves reshaping or removing parts of the deviated cartilage or bone. It’s often performed along with a rhinoplasty (nose job) if cosmetic improvements are desired. The procedure aims to improve nasal airflow and alleviate symptoms like congestion.

When to See a Doctor

If you are experiencing persistent nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through your nose, frequent nosebleeds, or other symptoms potentially related to your nasal septum, consult a doctor or ENT specialist (ear, nose, and throat doctor). They can properly diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate treatment plan.

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.