A deviated septum malformed partition, abnormal alignment, or a shift from the midline of the dividing tissue between the two nostrils.

The most common causes are: developmental abnormalities, nasal trauma from a fall or blow, or surgery that further exaggerates the deviation.

Infection and inflammation causing nasal congestion, blocking of sinus openings, chronic sinusitis, headache, and nosebleeds are signs and symptoms of the condition. A crooked nose, sensation of fullness in the face, and shortness of breath may also be present.

X-rays of the nose, visual and manual inspection, and an otolaryngoscopy are tests used for the condition.

Treatment for the condition includes: drug therapy to relieve headaches and congestion, and corrective surgical procedures, which may include reconstruction, rhinoplasty or septoplasty.

Patients may have an altered facial appearance, and be prone to obstruction of the nasal passage, nosebleeds, and sinusitis. Prognosis is usually good with surgical reconstruction.

• Service connection is warranted SOLELY for traumatic injury resulting in deflection/deviated nasal septum.

• None.