Nasal Fractures: What to Do After a Broken Nose

A broken nose, medically known as a nasal fracture, is a common injury resulting from sports accidents, falls, or physical trauma. It can be painful and alarming, but taking the right first-aid steps immediately after injury can reduce complications and support faster healing. Here’s what you need to know about handling a broken nose before visiting an ENT specialist.

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1. Recognize the Signs of a Broken Nose

Signs that your nose may be fractured include:

• Swelling and bruising, especially around the nose and under the eyes
• Pain and tenderness when touching or moving the nose
• Nosebleeds following the injury
• Deformity or crooked appearance of the nose
• Difficulty breathing through the nose due to swelling or obstruction
• A crunching or crackling sound when touching the nose

If you notice these symptoms, take immediate first-aid steps below.

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2. Stop the Bleeding

Nosebleeds are common after nasal fractures. To control bleeding:

• Sit upright and lean slightly forward to prevent blood from flowing down the throat
• Gently pinch the soft part of the nose just below the bony bridge for 10–15 minutes
• Avoid tilting your head backward, which can cause blood to run down the throat and increase discomfort

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3. Apply Ice to Reduce Swelling

To ease pain and control swelling:

• Wrap an ice pack or frozen peas in a cloth
• Apply gently over the nose and cheeks for 10–15 minutes every hour
• Avoid pressing directly on the nose to prevent further injury

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4. Manage Pain Safely

Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, following the recommended dosage. Avoid aspirin as it thins the blood and may increase bleeding.

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5. Avoid Blowing Your Nose

Refrain from blowing your nose after injury, as this can worsen swelling, cause bleeding, or create air pockets under the skin (subcutaneous emphysema).

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6. Seek Medical Attention

Visit an ENT specialist promptly if:

• Bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes of pressure
• You experience severe pain or breathing difficulty
• There is a visible deformity or crookedness
• Clear fluid drains from your nose (possible sign of a serious injury)
• You have persistent headaches, double vision, or loss of consciousness

An ENT doctor will evaluate the fracture and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include manual realignment, surgery, or careful monitoring.

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7. What NOT to Do After a Broken Nose

• Don’t attempt to straighten or adjust the nose yourself
• Avoid strenuous activities that may worsen swelling or risk re-injury
• Don’t delay seeking medical care, even if symptoms seem mild

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8. Treatment Options

• Closed Reduction: Non-surgical realignment of nasal bones, usually performed within 1-2 weeks post-injury
• Surgery: Required for severe fractures or nasal septum injuries to restore function and appearance
• Supportive Care: Pain management, swelling reduction, and sometimes nasal splints

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9. Post-Treatment Care

• Keep your head elevated to reduce swelling
• Avoid contact sports or heavy physical exertion for 4–6 weeks
• Monitor for signs of complications and contact your doctor if symptoms persist

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10. Preventing Nasal Fractures

• Wear protective gear during sports
• Always use seat belts while driving
• Take care to prevent falls in slippery environments

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When to Contact Our ENT Clinic

If you suspect a broken nose, timely evaluation is essential to ensure proper healing and avoid long-term breathing or cosmetic issues. At ENT Clinic of Excellence, we specialize in diagnosing and treating nasal fractures with expert care tailored to your needs.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the right treatment for your nasal injury.