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Deviated nasal septum

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The partition between the nasal cavities is called the nasal septum. It's made up of cartilage and bone. If the septum is crooked and causing obstruction, it is called a deviated septum.

A person who has a deviated nasal septum often has no symptoms or may have a crooked nose, problems breathing well through the nose (especially on one side), and a runny nose.

A deviated nasal septum may be caused by injury or surgery to the nose.

A person who has a deviated nasal septum that is not treated may have recurrent nosebleeds and recurrent nasal or sinus infections. If needed, treatment may include medicine to treat a runny nose or infection, or surgery to correct the deviation.

Current as of: September 27, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: September 27, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.