VA Disability Rating for Deviated Nasal Septum (DC 6502)
Diagnostic Code 6502 · 38 CFR §4.97
What Is It?
A deviated nasal septum is a condition where the thin wall between your nasal passages is shifted to one side, making one nasal passage smaller than the other. This can cause difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent nosebleeds, facial pain, and loud breathing during sleep. Veterans commonly develop this condition from nasal injuries during training, combat, sports, or accidents during service. Surgery to correct it (septoplasty) may or may not fully resolve the symptoms.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Fifty percent obstruction of the nasal passage on both sides, or complete obstruction on one side. |
| 0% | Traumatic deviation with only slight symptoms. |
Evidence Needed
- Service medical records documenting the nasal injury or surgery
- CT scan of the sinuses showing the deviation
- ENT examination documenting the percentage of nasal obstruction on each side
- Records of any septoplasty surgery and whether symptoms persisted afterward
- Documentation of ongoing symptoms — difficulty breathing, nosebleeds, headaches
C&P Exam Tips
- Do not use nasal decongestant sprays before the exam — the examiner needs to see your baseline obstruction
- Make sure the examiner documents the percentage of obstruction on each side, not just that a deviation exists
- Report all symptoms: mouth breathing, sleep disruption, nosebleeds, sinus infections
- If you had septoplasty during or after service, bring the surgical records and describe any residual symptoms
- Mention if the deviation contributes to sinus infections or sleep problems
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ. Include documentation of the in-service injury or surgery, current CT scan results, and an ENT evaluation measuring the obstruction percentage. If claiming sinusitis or sleep apnea as secondary, include a nexus letter explaining the connection.
Common Mistakes
Not getting the obstruction percentage documented A simple diagnosis of deviated septum is not enough. The examiner must measure and record the percentage of obstruction on each side. Using decongestants before the exam Nasal sprays can temporarily open passages and make the obstruction appear less severe. Avoid them before your C&P exam. Not claiming secondary conditions A deviated septum often causes sinusitis and may contribute to sleep apnea. File these as secondary conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get more than 10 percent for a deviated septum?
The maximum rating under DC 6502 is 10 percent. However, secondary conditions like chronic sinusitis (up to 50 percent) and sleep apnea (up to 100 percent) can significantly increase your overall combined rating.
What if I had surgery but still have symptoms?
Post-surgical residual symptoms are still ratable. If your septoplasty did not fully correct the obstruction or you still have breathing difficulties, those residuals can be rated.
Does a deviated septum from before service count?
If you had a pre-existing deviation that was aggravated during service — made worse by an injury — you can claim it on an aggravation basis.