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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does Deviated Septum Lead To Sleep Apnea?

I think I suffer from sleep apnea, but a family member of mine doesn t believe so. I have a deviated septum, and recall a night when I d stopped breathing in my sleep, and woke up gasping. I m a teenager - average weight. Is this because of my deviated septum, or could it be sleep apnea? Thanks.
Thu, 1 Jun 2023
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi,

A deviated nasal septum is a condition in which the thin wall (septum) that separates the nasal passages is displaced to one side, causing an imbalance in airflow. While a deviated nasal septum itself may not directly lead to sleep apnea, it can contribute to the development or worsening of certain sleep-related breathing disorders.
A deviated septum can narrow the nasal passages and impede the smooth flow of air through the nose. This nasal obstruction can result in mouth breathing during sleep, which in turn may increase the risk of developing or exacerbating sleep apnea. Mouth breathing bypasses the natural filtration and humidification functions of the nose, leading to dry mouth, snoring, and potentially worsening the symptoms of sleep apnea.

It's important to note that not everyone with a deviated nasal septum will develop sleep apnea, and many individuals with a deviated septum do not experience any breathing difficulties during sleep. However, if you suspect you have a deviated nasal septum or are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific situation and provide appropriate diagnosis and treatment options.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Muhammad Umer Farooq, General & Family Physician
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Does Deviated Septum Lead To Sleep Apnea?

Hi, A deviated nasal septum is a condition in which the thin wall (septum) that separates the nasal passages is displaced to one side, causing an imbalance in airflow. While a deviated nasal septum itself may not directly lead to sleep apnea, it can contribute to the development or worsening of certain sleep-related breathing disorders. A deviated septum can narrow the nasal passages and impede the smooth flow of air through the nose. This nasal obstruction can result in mouth breathing during sleep, which in turn may increase the risk of developing or exacerbating sleep apnea. Mouth breathing bypasses the natural filtration and humidification functions of the nose, leading to dry mouth, snoring, and potentially worsening the symptoms of sleep apnea. It s important to note that not everyone with a deviated nasal septum will develop sleep apnea, and many individuals with a deviated septum do not experience any breathing difficulties during sleep. However, if you suspect you have a deviated nasal septum or are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific situation and provide appropriate diagnosis and treatment options. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Muhammad Umer Farooq, General & Family Physician