Fact Checked
A broken nose is characterized by swelling, pain and bruising around the nose and eyes. The injury is prevalent in sports since it protrudes from the face and prone to trauma. If the individual sustained the injury, there are several measures that can promote healing of the nose as well as keep it healthy and straight on a long-term basis. A doctor should be consulted if there is a need for surgery.
Measures in caring for a broken nose
- Lean forward and inhale via the mouth after the injury. The broken nose is likely to bleed after trauma and it is vital not to allow the blood to flow down the throat and cause choking. Gently place gauze, towel or a facial tissue to the nose and make sure that the pressure will not trigger any pain or dislodge any bone.
Apply an ice pack on the nose right after the injury and then at least 4 times throughout the day during the initial 48 hours. - Apply an ice pack on the nose right after the injury and then at least 4 times throughout the day during the initial 48 hours. The cold helps lessen the swelling and congestion that oftentimes accompanies a broken nose. It should stay in place for 10-15 minutes.
- With a rolled towel, place it under the head of the mattress. Sleeping or resting in an elevated position can help lessen the swelling to allow better sleeping at night. In addition, it also lessens issues stemming from nosebleeds that occur in the middle of the night.
- An over-the-counter pain medication can be given to lessen some of the pain linked with a broken nose. The nose might feel tender for several days after the damage.
- Set an appointment with a doctor if the broken nose needs realignment after the damage. The doctor should be seen within 3-7 days to realign the nose before the bones fuse together. If realignment is required and the bones already started to heal, rhinoplasty might be necessary to break the bones as well as reset properly.
- Use a protective facial gear. Wearing the right protective gear for the face protects the nose from further injury as it recuperates. Remember that a face gear might also be required if the individual is prone to breaks in the nose.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on a broken nose is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to properly manage nose injuries, register for a first aid and CPR course with Ottawa First Aid.