Nasal fractures, commonly referred to as a broken nose, are a prevalent injury, accounting for approximately 40% to 50% of all facial fractures. Whether it’s a sports injury, a car accident or an altercation, nasal fractures can cause discomfort and affect appearance and breathing. Understanding the causes, symptoms and treatment options for nasal fractures is essential for proper management and recovery.
Common Nasal Fracture Causes
Nasal fractures typically occur when there is a significant impact on the nose. Common causes of this impact include:
- Sports injuries. Contact sports like football, basketball and hockey can lead to nasal fractures from collisions or blows to the face.
- Accidents. Car accidents, falls, walking into walls and doors or other types of accidents where the face is impacted can result in nasal fractures.
Identifying a Nasal Fracture
Identifying a nasal fracture is crucial for seeking appropriate medical attention. Common symptoms include:
- Pain and swelling. The nose may be tender to the touch, and there can be significant swelling around the nasal area.
- Crooked appearance. A visibly crooked or misshapen nose is a clear indication of a nasal fracture.
- Difficulty breathing. Swelling and misalignment of the nasal bones can obstruct airflow, leading to breathing difficulties.
- Nasal bleeding. Blood may flow from one or both nostrils following the injury.
- Black eye. Bruising around the eyes can occur due to blood pooling beneath the skin following the injury.
Nasal Fracture Treatment
Seeking medical attention promptly after sustaining a nasal fracture is crucial. After assessing the extent of the injury through a visual exam and imaging, your ENT specialist may recommend one or more of the following treatment options:
- Nasal realignment. In cases where a nasal fracture has resulted in disfigurement, your provider may manually realign the nasal bones and cartilage.
- Nasal packing. Gauze or other materials may be placed alongside the nose to control bleeding and support the nasal structure during healing.
- Surgery. For complex or severe fractures, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the bones and restore nasal function and aesthetics.
- Pain management. Your provider may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications to manage pain and discomfort.
- Ice. Ice can help alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling.
- Follow-up care. It’s essential to follow any post-treatment instructions from your provider to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. These may include icing and pain medication, follow-up appointments and skipping Forest Park football games until your nose is fully healed.
For more information on caring for your nose and sinus health, contact Midwest ENT Centre today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.