Causes

A deviated septum occurs when your nasal septum — the thin wall that separates your right and left nasal passages — is displaced to one side.

A deviated septum can be caused by:

• A condition present at birth. In some cases, a deviated septum occurs when the fetus develops in the womb and is apparent at birth.

• Injury to the nose. A deviated septum can also be the result of an injury that causes the nasal septum to be moved out of position.

  In infants, such an injury may occur during childbirth. In children and adults, a wide array of accidents may lead to a nose injury and deviated septum. Trauma to the nose most commonly occurs during contact sports, rough play such as wrestling or automobile accidents.

The aging process may affect nasal structures, worsening a deviated septum over time.

Swelling and irritation of the nasal cavities or sinus cavities because of an infection can further narrow the nasal passage and result in nasal obstruction.