Broken Nose

Overview

A broken nose, also called a nasal fracture, is a crack or break in the bone or cartilage of the nose. It usually happens when something hits your face directly. The nose may look swollen, bruised, or crooked, and it can hurt, especially if you touch it.

Yes, a broken nose is one of the most common facial injuries.

Anyone can break their nose, but it is more likely in athletes, children, and people involved in falls, accidents, or fights.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain in or around the nose
• Swelling of the nose and face
• Bruising around the eyes, often called black eyes
• Tenderness when touching the nose
• Nosebleeds
• A nose that looks crooked or bent
• Trouble breathing through the nose

Symptoms in children

• Children may not be able to describe the pain, so look for fussiness or crying
• They may refuse to let you touch their nose
• Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes
• A nosebleed that may not stop quickly

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may bruise more easily because the skin is thinner
• Nosebleeds may take longer to stop
• They may also have other health conditions or take medicines that increase bleeding risk

Causes

Main causes

• A direct blow to the face, such as from a punch or a ball
• A fall or car accident
• A sports injury
• A physical fight or assault

Risk factors

• Playing contact sports without protective equipment
• Being in a car or bicycle accident
• Taking medicines that make bleeding more likely, such as blood thinners
• Being a child or older adult, because bones can be more fragile

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have trouble breathing
• You have a nosebleed that will not stop
• Your nose looks very bent or crooked
• You have signs of a head injury, like confusion or vomiting

Book a routine appointment if:

• The pain is strong or lasts longer than a few days
• You are worried about how your nose looks
• You have repeated nosebleeds

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask how the injury happened and look at and gently feel your nose and face. They will check for swelling, tenderness, and whether the nose looks misshapen.

Tests that may be done

• Most broken noses do not need X-rays, but the doctor may order one if they think other injuries are possible
• In some cases, a CT scan may be done if the injury is severe
• A small camera called an endoscope may be used to look inside the nose

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will check your airway and gently press on the outside of your nose. They will also look at your eyes and cheeks to make sure nothing else is injured. This may feel a little uncomfortable, but it is usually quick.

Treatment

Treatment depends on how severe the break is. Many simple breaks heal with rest, ice, and pain relief. If the nose is very crooked or has caused breathing problems, a doctor may recommend a procedure to realign the bones.

Self-care at home

• Apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth to your nose for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day for the first 1 to 2 days
• Keep your head raised when lying down to reduce swelling
• Avoid blowing your nose for a few days
• Take over-the-counter pain relief if it is safe for you — ask your pharmacist
• Sleep with your head slightly elevated using extra pillows

Medical treatments

For a crooked nose or breathing problems, a doctor may perform a procedure called a reduction. This usually happens within a week of the injury and involves gently moving the bones back into place. In more serious cases, surgery may be needed to correct the shape of the nose or to fix breathing passages.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is usually only needed if the nose remains very crooked, makes it hard to breathe, or does not heal properly after a few weeks.

Living with this condition

Your nose will be sore and swollen for a few days. Bruising around the eyes may look worse before it fades. Most swelling goes down within a week, but it can take about 3 months for the nose to fully heal.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid blowing your nose for a few days
• Avoid touching or pressing on your nose
• If you wear glasses, try to rest them on your cheeks using a small piece of tape or ask about alternatives
• Avoid contact sports until a doctor says it is safe to return

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables to help your body heal. Avoid heavy exercise or activities that could cause a bump to your face until you have fully recovered.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A broken nose can change how you look for a while, which may feel upsetting. It is normal to feel frustrated or embarrassed. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, contact a local crisis helpline or reach out to a healthcare professional. You do not have to cope alone.

Prevention

Many broken noses can be prevented by wearing appropriate safety equipment, such as face guards or helmets, during contact sports and by being cautious in situations with a high risk of falls or impacts.

Complications

If left untreated

• A nose that heals in a crooked shape
• Long-term breathing problems through the nose
• Repeated nosebleeds
• A collection of blood inside the nose, called a septal hematoma, which may need drainage
• A rare hole in the nasal septum

Long-term outlook

The outlook for a broken nose is very good. Most heal well with simple care. If the nose heals crooked or causes breathing problems, a doctor can often correct it. With proper care, you can expect a full recovery and your nose will look and work normally again.

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