Taking care of a broken nose is essential, not only for aesthetic reasons but for proper breathing and overall health. If you’re an athlete, an outdoor enthusiast or even just unlucky with a frisbee game at Presidents Park, it’s helpful to know what to do if you find yourself with a broken nose.
Recognizing a Broken Nose
Nasal fractures make up a significant portion of facial injuries, with estimates indicating they account for about 40% to 50% of all cases. Various situations can lead to a broken nose, such as sports-related injuries, automotive accidents, unintended falls or physical confrontations. The force of impact plays a crucial role in whether a nose will break or not.
Recognizing a broken nose involves being aware of several symptoms. These may include pain and sensitivity, an audible crackling noise upon touching the nose, bleeding, noticeable swelling, bruising that extends to the eyes, difficulty with nasal breathing, drainage and a visibly misshapen nose. Should you find yourself experiencing these symptoms after a blow to the face, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
Treating a Broken Nose
When you see a healthcare provider for a suspected broken nose, they might suggest one or more of the following treatments depending on the nature and severity of the injury:
Realignment
This is a common procedure when the nasal fracture has resulted in disfigurement. Your ENT provider will manually adjust the bones and cartilage in your nose to restore its original shape. Realignment is typically performed under local anesthesia, though some cases may require general anesthesia, especially in younger patients or more severe injuries.
Surgery
For more severe cases, surgical intervention might be necessary. Surgical procedures such as septoplasty focus on reshaping the nasal septum to fix tears and control bleeding. Rhinoplasty might be performed to reconstruct the nose, addressing cosmetic concerns and functional obstructions.
Draining
In cases where the trauma has caused a septal hematoma or a collection of blood within the septum, immediate drainage is crucial. This step is necessary to prevent the complication of septal perforation or necrosis (tissue death).
Ice Application and Pain Relievers
Ice is a recommended treatment to alleviate swelling and discomfort. Pain medication accompanies it if the injury does not warrant realignment or more invasive treatments.
A broken nose might seem daunting, but with professional care, recovery can feel smooth and easy. For those needing assistance, contact ENT & Allergy Specialists – Ear Nose and Throat Physicians and Surgeons today for support.