Disease Comparison
Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.
Sleep Apnea
Moderate
3
Symptoms
4
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS
Deviated Septum
Mild
2
Symptoms
0
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
Overview
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops or becomes very shallow during sleep. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the upper airway becomes blocked or narrowed during sleep. Another form, central sleep apnea, occurs when the brain does not send appropriate signals to the muscles that control breathing. Symptoms may include loud snoring, pauses in breathing, daytime sleepiness, and morning headaches.
Deviated Septum
A deviated septum occurs when the nasal septum, the wall of bone and cartilage separating the two sides of the nose, is shifted away from the center. A mild deviation may cause no symptoms, while a more pronounced deviation can narrow one nasal passage and make breathing difficult. It may contribute to mouth breathing, snoring, recurrent nasal problems, or repeated sinus infections.
Symptoms
Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Cold Sweats Excessive Sleepiness Swollen AnklesOnly in Right Disease
Runny Nose SneezingCauses
Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Alcohol Infection Smoking StressOnly in Right Disease
None
Diagnosis
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is evaluated using symptoms, sleep history, and information from a sleep partner when available. A sleep study can monitor breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and other body functions during sleep. Testing may be performed in a sleep center or, for some people, at home. The results help determine whether apnea is present and what type and severity of disorder exists.
Deviated Septum
A deviated septum is usually diagnosed by examining the nose and asking about symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, congestion, nosebleeds, or recurrent sinus problems. The inside of the nose may be examined directly or with nasal endoscopy. Imaging may sometimes be used when additional information about the nasal structures or sinuses is needed.
Prevention
Sleep Apnea
Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of obstructive sleep apnea or lessen its severity. Avoiding alcohol and sedating medicines before sleep, when medically appropriate, can also help. Sleeping on the side may reduce airway obstruction in some people. Avoiding tobacco and treating nasal or other airway problems can support healthy breathing during sleep. People with symptoms should seek medical evaluation.
Deviated Septum
A deviated septum present from birth or caused by normal development cannot usually be prevented. Preventing nasal injuries can reduce the chance of developing a traumatic deviation. Wearing appropriate protective equipment during contact sports and activities with a risk of facial injury can help protect the nose. Persistent nasal blockage or repeated nasal problems should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Risk Factors
Sleep Apnea
Risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea include excess body weight, a larger neck circumference, certain facial or airway structures, older age, and a family history of the disorder. Alcohol and sedating medicines can worsen airway obstruction during sleep. Smoking may also increase risk. Central sleep apnea is associated with certain heart, brain, and medical conditions and with some medicines.
Deviated Septum
Risk of a deviated septum is increased by injuries to the nose, including injuries from falls, sports, accidents, or other trauma. A septal deviation may also be present from birth or become more noticeable as the nose and facial structures develop. People with significant deviation may be more likely to experience nasal obstruction or problems associated with reduced nasal airflow.
Treatment
Sleep Apnea
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Deviated Septum
Treatment comparison will be available soon.