Deviated Nasal Septum and Snoring

A deviated nasal septum—a condition where the thin wall between your nostrils is displaced to one side—can significantly contribute to snoring. If you’re experiencing snoring caused by a deviated septum, it’s essential to understand the root causes, explore effective solutions, and consider the best anti-snoring devices available.

What Causes Snoring Due to a Deviated Septum?

A deviated nasal septum restricts airflow through one or both nostrils. This restriction increases turbulence in the airway, causing vibrations in the soft tissues of the throat and nasal passages, which result in snoring.

Common Symptoms:

• Snoring, sometimes loud and persistent
• Nasal congestion, especially on one side
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Dry mouth from breathing through the mouth during sleep

Can a Deviated Nasal Septum Cause Loud Snoring?

Yes, a deviated septum can cause loud snoring, especially when airflow is significantly blocked. Mouth breathing often accompanies this type of snoring, as individuals struggle to breathe through their obstructed nasal passages.

How to Stop Snoring Due to a Deviated Septum

1. Home Remedies for Snoring with a Deviated Septum

• Steam Inhalation: Helps clear nasal passages before sleep.
• Saline Nasal Spray: Reduces nasal congestion and improves airflow.
• Sleeping Position: Sleeping on your side can prevent your tongue and soft tissues from blocking your airway.
• Elevating Your Head: Using an adjustable pillow can minimize airway obstruction.
• Hydration: Keeping hydrated reduces the stickiness of mucus, improving nasal airflow.

2. Anti-Snoring Devices for a Deviated Septum

• Nasal Dilators: Open up nasal passages, allowing for better airflow and reducing snoring.
• Chin Straps: Useful for those who breathe through their mouth due to a blocked nose.
• VitalSleep Mouthpiece: This adjustable anti-snoring device repositions the jaw to improve airflow. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with both nasal and oral snoring.
• SnoreRx Mouthpiece: Customizable to fit your bite, it can address snoring caused by a deviated septum and other factors.

3. Medical Interventions

• Deviated Septum Surgery (Septoplasty): If snoring significantly affects your quality of life, septoplasty may be necessary to correct the nasal obstruction. Many individuals report reduced snoring or complete cessation after surgery.
• Allergy Treatments: If allergies exacerbate your nasal congestion, addressing them with medication or immunotherapy can help.

Will Fixing a Deviated Septum Stop Snoring?

Fixing a deviated septum through surgery can often stop or significantly reduce snoring. However, snoring may persist if other factors—such as obesity, alcohol consumption, or sleep apnea—are also contributing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a Deviated Septum Always Cause Snoring?

Not always. Some individuals with a deviated septum do not snore, while others may snore due to a combination of factors like allergies or sleep apnea.

What Does Deviated Septum Snoring Sound Like?

Snoring caused by a deviated septum often includes nasal sounds, like whistling or wheezing, combined with mouth snoring.

How Do You Stop Snoring with a Deviated Septum?

Using nasal dilators, saline sprays, or a device like VitalSleep can provide immediate relief. Long-term solutions may require surgery.

Best Anti-Snoring Device for a Deviated Septum

Among the available devices, the VitalSleep Mouthpiece stands out as an excellent solution. It is:

• Adjustable for personalized comfort
• FDA-cleared and made in the USA
• Designed to address the root cause of snoring by improving airflow

If nasal congestion is the primary issue, nasal dilators or a nasal strip can also help.

When to Consider Surgery

If snoring persists despite trying devices and remedies, or if it significantly impacts your quality of life, consult an ENT specialist about septoplasty. Surgery is often the most effective way to correct a deviated septum and achieve long-term relief from snoring.