Snoring and Deviated Septum in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Snoring is a common issue that affects both adults and children, but when it comes to children, it can be a cause for concern. In some cases, snoring in children can be a result of a deviated septum. A deviated septum is a condition where the thin wall that separates the nostrils is shifted, making one nostril smaller than the other. This can lead to difficulty breathing through the nose, which can cause snoring. In this blog post, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for snoring and deviated septum in children.

Causes of Snoring and Deviated Septum in Children:

1. Genetics: Children can inherit a deviated septum from their parents. If one or both parents have a deviated septum, there is a high chance that their child will have it too.

2. Birth Defects: Sometimes, a deviated septum can be a result of a birth defect. This can happen if the child’s nose did not develop properly during pregnancy.

3. Injuries: In some cases, a deviated septum can be caused by an injury to the nose. This can happen if a child falls or gets hit in the nose.

4. Enlarged Adenoids: Adenoids are tissues located in the back of the nose that help fight infections. If they become enlarged, they can block the nasal passage, making it difficult for a child to breathe through the nose.

Symptoms of Snoring and Deviated Septum in Children:

1. Snoring: As mentioned earlier, a deviated septum can cause snoring in children. If your child snores loudly, it could be a sign of a deviated septum.

man snoring loudly while woman covers her ears, looking frustrated in bed

Snoring and Deviated Septum in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

2. Difficulty Breathing: A deviated septum can make it difficult for a child to breathe through the nose. This can lead to frequent breathing through the mouth, especially during sleep.

3. Nosebleeds: If your child experiences frequent nosebleeds, it could be a sign of a deviated septum. The uneven airflow caused by the deviated septum can dry out the nasal passages, making them more prone to bleeding.

4. Chronic Sinus Infections: A deviated septum can also make a child more susceptible to sinus infections. The blocked nasal passage can prevent proper drainage, leading to a buildup of mucus and bacteria.

Treatment Options for Snoring and Deviated Septum in Children:

1. Observation: In some cases, a deviated septum in children may not require any treatment. If the symptoms are mild and do not affect the child’s daily life, the doctor may recommend observation to see if the condition improves on its own.

2. Medications: If the deviated septum is caused by allergies or sinus infections, the doctor may prescribe medications such as antihistamines or nasal sprays to relieve symptoms.

3. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a deviated septum. The surgery, known as a septoplasty, involves straightening the nasal septum to improve airflow and reduce snoring.

4. Adenoid Removal: If enlarged adenoids are causing the deviated septum, the doctor may recommend removing them. This procedure, known as an adenoidectomy, can help improve breathing and reduce snoring.

5. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy: If the deviated septum is causing sleep apnea, the doctor may recommend CPAP therapy. This involves wearing a mask at night that delivers a continuous flow of air to keep the airway open.

In conclusion, snoring and deviated septum in children can be caused by various factors such as genetics, birth defects, injuries, and enlarged adenoids. If not treated, it can lead to various symptoms such as snoring, difficulty breathing, nosebleeds, and chronic sinus infections. Treatment options include observation, medications, surgery, adenoid removal, and CPAP therapy. If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, it is essential to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.