A broken nose is characterized by a fracture or break in the bones or cartilage in the nose. It is usually caused by a direct blow to the face, a fall, a car accidents, physical aggression or contact sports.

Treatment for a broken nose is aimed at reducing pain, swelling and bleeding from the nose which can usually be done with the use of painkillers or anti-inflammatories. In some cases, surgical repair may be necessary to realign the bones.

Recovery usually occurs in about 7 days, but in some cases, further surgeries may be necessary, which can prolong recovery time.

Common symptoms

The main signs and symptoms of a broken nose are:

Abnormal nose shape
Pain and swelling in the nose
Purple spots on the nose or around the eyes
Bleeding from the nose
Extreme sensitivity to touch
Difficulty breathing through the nose

Children are at a lower risk of a broken nose because their bones and cartilage are more flexible. However, when it does happen, it is most often caused by falls.

In babies, the bones in the nose can fracture at the time of birth. In this case, it is usually identified by visible deformity in the area. Surgery to correct it should be done as soon as possible to prevent the nose from becoming permanently crooked or causing breathing difficulties.

What to do if you suspect a fracture

Many times, a broken nose is simple and does not cause any changes in the appearance of the nose. In these cases, and although it is always important to have a doctor evaluate it, treatment is usually conservative and involves:

Applying a cold compress or ice on the nose for about 10 minutes to reduce pain and swelling
Avoiding moving or try to put the bone back in place, as this may worsen the injury
Taking painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as prescribed by a doctor

If the nose is visibly deformed or if other symptoms appear, such bruising on the face or excessive nosebleeds, it is important to go to proceed to an emergency room immediately for assessment and treatment.

If you experience bleeding, remain seated or with the head tilted forward and continue to breathe through the mouth. If the bleeding is intense, gauze or cotton can be placed to cover the nostril, without pushing on it too hard. Do not tild your head back, as this can worsen the injury and lead to blood accumulating in the throat.

When surgery is necessary

Surgery is indicated whenever the fracture causes a deviation in the bones of the nose. After initial treatment to reduce swelling, which can last between 1 and 7 days, surgery is performed to reposition the bones. The type of surgery and anesthesia used will depend on each case and each patient's health history. Serious fractures with bulging bones will require immediate surgery.

After surgery, a special dressing is applied, which can be made of plaster or a rigid material, to help fix the bones. It can remain in place for about 1 week.

Recovery from a broken nose is quick and averages about 7 days. However, sports that are at risk of causing a new fracture should be avoided for 3 to 4 months, or as recommended by your doctor.

Possible complications

Even with adequate treatment, some complications can still arise, which may require medication or further surgery. The main complications of a broken nose are:

Facial bruising, due to the accumulation of blood around the fracture
Reduction in the nasal canal due to irregular healing, which can make it difficult for air to pass through,
Obstruction of the tear duct from abnormal healing, which prevents the passage of tears
Infection, due to surgical incisions and manipulation

Within one month, a broken nose should be completely resolved, and swelling should completely disappear. However, the person may notice changes to the nose shape and breathing, which may require further assessment with an ENT specialist or plastic surgeon in the future.