How do a deviated septum and a nasal polyp differ?

Quite different: A deviated septum is when the septum, the sheet of cartilage down the middle of your nose, is no longer straight, and twists to one side or the other. A polyp is a little benign growth inside the nose. So, they are different - but they can both cause blockage of the airflow through your nose. Evaluation by an ENT doctor can help you figure this out.

Structures: The septum is a cartilage and bone structure inside your nose that separates the sides. It may be bent and block breathing. A nasal polyp is a soft growth that usually originates in the sinus, is caused by inflammation and may also block breathing. They can occur together.

Septum/polyps: This can only be determined by physical examination. Be sure to have your nose evaluated by a board certified otolaryngologist.

Bend vs protrusion : a deviated septum is a bending of the wall that divides the right side of the nose from the left side. A polyp is a mass that has a stalk-like projection usually form the sidewalks of the nose and not the wall down the middle. They are treated very differently. The septum is made of bone/cartilage whereas a polyp is tissue