A nose fracture is a break in the bone over the bridge of the nose.

A fractured nose is the most common facial fracture. It usually results from a blunt injury and is often associated with other facial fractures. The bruised appearance usually disappears after 2 weeks.

Sometimes, as a result of a blunt injury, the septum (wall dividing the nostrils) can separate. The symptoms may be the same as a fractured nose.

Nose injuries and neck injuries are often seen together because a blow that is forceful enough to injure the nose may be hard enough to injure the neck.

Serious nose injuries cause problems that require immediate professional attention. However, for minor nose injuries, the doctor may prefer to see the victim after the swelling subsides.

Occasionally, plastic surgery may be necessary to correct a deformity of the nose or nasal septum caused by a trauma.

• Blood coming from the nose
• Bruising around the eyes
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Misshapen appearance (may not be obvious until swelling subsides)
• Pain
• Swelling

1. Reassure the patient and try to keep the patient calm.
2. Have the patient breathe through the mouth and lean forward in a sitting position in order to keep blood from going down the back of the throat.
3. Apply cold compresses to the nose to reduce swelling. If possible, the patient should hold the compress so that excessive pressure is not applied.
4. To help relieve pain, acetaminophen is recommended.

• DO NOT try to straighten a broken nose.
• DO NOT move the person if there is reason to suspect a head or neck injury.

• You suspect a neck or head injury
• Bleeding will not stop
• Clear fluid keeps draining from the nose
• The person is having difficulty breathing

Protective headgear should be worn while playing contact sports, riding bicycles, skateboards, roller-skates, or roller blades.

Seat belts and appropriate car seats should be used.