What is a Nasal Fracture?
A nasal fracture, also known as a broken nose, is a break or crack in one or both of the nasal bones — the bones that form the bridge of the nose. It is the most common facial fracture and often results from trauma such as a fall, sports injury, accident, or physical assault.

What causes a nasal fracture?
Common causes include:

• Sports injuries (especially contact sports)
• Falls or motor vehicle accidents
• Physical fights or assaults
• Accidental bumps or collisions (e.g., with doors or hard objects)

The nose’s exposed position on the face makes it highly vulnerable to injury.

What are the symptoms of a nasal fracture?
Symptoms of a broken nose may include:

• Pain, tenderness, or swelling of the nose and surrounding areas
• Nosebleed (epistaxis)
• Bruising around the nose and under the eyes (“black eyes”)
• Crooked or misshapen appearance of the nose
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• A grating sound or feeling (crepitus) when touching the nose
• Nasal discharge, possibly containing blood or clear fluid
• Septal hematoma (blood collecting under the nasal lining)—a serious complication

How is a nasal fracture diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically based on:

• A physical examination and medical history
• Inspection for deformity, swelling, or bleeding
• Feeling the nasal bones for movement or instability

In some cases, imaging studies such as:

• X-rays (not always needed)
• CT scans (for complex or severe fractures, especially with other facial injuries)

How is a nasal fracture treated?
Treatment depends on the severity and timing of the injury:

For minor, non-displaced fractures:

• Ice packs to reduce swelling (apply for 15–20 minutes every few hours)
• Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
• Keeping the head elevated
• Avoiding further trauma until healed

For displaced or severe fractures:

• Manual realignment (closed reduction): Usually done within 7–10 days after injury
• Surgery (septorhinoplasty or open reduction): Required for complex breaks, septal damage, or cosmetic correction

What is a septal hematoma and why is it important?
A septal hematoma occurs when blood collects between the cartilage and lining of the nasal septum. It can block airflow and damage the cartilage if not drained promptly. If untreated, it can lead to permanent deformity (saddle-nose deformity) or infection.

What is the recovery time for a nasal fracture?

• Swelling typically subsides in 5–7 days.
• The bones may heal within 2–3 weeks.
• Full healing and return to contact sports may take 4–6 weeks.
• If surgery is needed, recovery may be longer.

What complications can occur from a nasal fracture?
Possible complications include:

• Persistent nasal obstruction
• Nose deformity
• Chronic sinus problems
• Septal deviation
• Infection
• Recurrent nosebleeds

How can a nasal fracture be prevented?

• Wear protective headgear during sports
• Use seat belts and airbags in vehicles
• Avoid physical altercations
• Ensure safety at home to prevent falls

When should I see a doctor for a nasal injury?
Seek medical care immediately if you have:

• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Heavy bleeding that doesn’t stop
• Obvious deformity or displacement
• Clear fluid leaking from the nose (could indicate a skull fracture)
• Signs of a septal hematoma (swollen nasal septum)