Diagnosing a Deviated Septum -- No Special Tests are Usually Needed

According to information from the Harvard Medical Schools, to diagnose a deviated septum, a doctor uses a bright light and a nasal speculum (an instrument that gently spreads open your nostril) to inspect the inside surface of each nostril.

In most cases, you will not need any special tests.

If a deviated septum is causing troublesome nosebleeds, repeated sinus infections or other significant problems, then your primary care doctor will refer you to an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat specialist) or plastic surgeon for treatment.