Broken Nose

1. When to See a Health Care Provider

• Go to a hospital emergency room or see a health care provider immediately if:
• You cannot stop the nose from bleeding.
• The nostril or nasal septum is crooked or out of place.
• The person has clear drainage from one or both nostrils or a grapelike swelling inside the nose on the septum.

2. Treat Symptoms
Apply ice for pain and swelling.

• Have the person rest and keep the head elevated even when sleeping.
• The person should avoid blowing his or her nose.
• Give acetaminophen for pain. Do not give NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin.

3. Follow Up

• If the nose is not out of position, rest and home treatment may be all that's needed.
• If the nose is crooked or it is difficult for the person to breathe through the nose, see a health care provider.

If you see a health care provider, the next steps depend on the particular case:

• To stop bleeding, the health care provider may pack the nostrils with gauze.
• For a simple fracture, the health care provider may straighten the nose.
• Surgery may be needed to move bone or cartilage back in place for a more complicated fracture.

SOURCES:

Palo Alto Medical Foundation: "Broken nose (nasal fracture)."

American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and American Association of Orthodontists: "Prevent accidents first. . . But, know what to do when they do occur."

American Academy of Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery: "Nasal Fractures."

Harvard Health Publications: "Broken Nose (Nasal Fracture)."