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Diagnosing a nasal fracture
The nasal bones are the most commonly broken bones of the face as they have an exposed, prominent position and little structural support. X-rays have little value in confirming or ruling out this condition due to the difficult imaging of these bones (plain films miss approximately 50% of fractures). Therefore, the management of nasal injuries is guided only by the clinical findings.
Signs & Symptoms
- Obvious deformity/deviation of the nose
- Instability and crepitus (clicking)
- Skin lacerations
- Swelling/bruising
- Nosebleed
- Obstructed nasal passages (blocked nose)
- Discharge of clear watery fluid from one nostril
How is the Fracture Managed?
This largely depends on the clinical findings. Your Clinician will examine your nose to ensure there is no collection of blood (haematoma) in the septum of your nose (the partition between the two nostrils), no active, heavy bleeding and that you are able to breathe through both nostrils.
In cases of simple, uncomplicated fractures patients can be:
- Given advise to use ice packs and take regular painkillers – Paracetamol, Ibuprofen following the dosage instructions on the packet.
- Given antibiotics if there has been a large cut overlying the fracture or a haematoma has been lanced and drained.
- Avoid sports and heavy lifting for 3 weeks.
- Avoid bending down too quickly to prevent a further nosebleed. If a heavy nosebleed starts, sit down and squeeze the front, soft part of the nose firmly for at least 10 minutes. If the nosebleed continues for longer than 30 minutes then attend the Emergency Department for further guidance.
- Discharged with a follow-up appointment in the ENT (Ears, Nose & Throat) Nasal Fracture Clinic within 5-7 days. The team will contact you via the phone; your mobile may say ‘no ID caller’ which is from the hospital main switchboard. Please ensure that your Clinician has your contact number prior to discharge.
- Your ENT Dr will examine you and discuss whether a reduction (resetting) of the broken nose is necessary. If this is the case, it must be performed after the initial soft tissue swelling has settled and before 2 weeks post injury.
How long before the fracture heals?
Fractured nasal bones usually heal within 2-3 weeks. In cases of complicated nasal fractures or when associated with serious injury to other facial structures and/or signs of a head injury, you may be referred to a specialist surgeon for further treatment.
For non-urgent medical advice please call 111 or visit https:/
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Emergency department (ED) service.
About this information
Service:
Emergency department (ED)
Reference:
A/022
Approval date:
1 November 2024
Review date:
1 November 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.