A Cross-Sectional Study of Deviated Nasal Septum and Its Clinical Presentation

Background: Deviated nasal septum (DNS) is one of the most frequently encountered structural abnormalities in otorhinolaryngology practice and is a major contributor to nasal obstruction and related sinonasal complaints. The clinical presentation varies depending on the type and severity of septal deviation. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical profile and morphological patterns of DNS and to assess the association between septal deviation type and presenting symptoms. Material and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of a tertiary care center over 18 months. A total of 150 patients aged ≥10 years with clinically and endoscopically confirmed DNS were enrolled. Demographic details, symptom profile, and severity of nasal obstruction using a 10-point Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were recorded. Septal morphology was classified based on endoscopic findings. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of participants was 31.8 ± 11.6 years, with the highest proportion in the 21–30-year age group (30.7%). Males constituted 62.7% of cases. Nasal obstruction was present in all patients. Headache (58.7%) and nasal discharge (50.7%) were common associated symptoms. Moderate nasal obstruction was observed in 45.3% of patients, with a mean VAS score of 5.9 ± 2.1. C-shaped deviation was the most frequent morphological type (41.3%). Inferior turbinate hypertrophy was the most common associated endoscopic finding (54.7%). A statistically significant association was observed between the type of septal deviation and predominant symptoms (χ² = 9.84, p = 0.043). Conclusion: DNS predominantly affects young adults and is commonly associated with moderate to severe nasal obstruction. Morphological variation influences symptom patterns, underscoring the importance of detailed anatomical assessment for optimal clinical management.