What are the symptoms and signs of a nasal fracture?

The main symptoms of a broken nose include nasal pain, swelling, nose bleeding, and nasal deformity. Treatments include cold compresses, medications, and surgical repair.

1. Common symptoms of nasal bone fracture

After a nasal bone fracture, people usually have severe pain in the nose, especially when touched or pressed. Swelling of the nose is another typical symptom, usually within a few hours of the injury, and may be accompanied by bruising. Nose bleeding is also common because the fracture may damage blood vessels in the nose. If the fracture causes the nasal bone to move out of place, people may have a deformed nose, such as a crooked or collapsed nose.

2. Diagnosis of nasal bone fracture

Doctors usually make a preliminary assessment of the possibility of a nasal bone fracture through a physical examination. When palpating the nose, the doctor may find significant tenderness or a sense of bone friction. Imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans are key to confirming the diagnosis and can clearly show the location and extent of the fracture. For complex fractures, CT scans are particularly important because they can assess whether surrounding structures such as the nasal septum or orbit are involved.

3. Treatment of nasal bone fracture

For minor nasal bone fractures, cold compresses can effectively reduce swelling and pain. Patients can apply cold compresses for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours for 24-48 hours after the injury. Medical treatment includes the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen to relieve pain and inflammation. If the fracture causes nasal deformity or affects breathing function, surgical repair may be required. Common surgical methods include closed reduction and open reduction, and the specific choice depends on the severity and location of the fracture.

4. Rehabilitation and care of nasal bone fracture

During the recovery period, patients should avoid strenuous exercise and external impact to avoid aggravating the injury. It is also important to keep the nasal cavity clean. You can use normal saline to rinse the nasal cavity to reduce the risk of infection. If you experience symptoms such as persistent nasal congestion, pus or fever, you should seek medical attention in time to rule out infection or other complications.

Although nasal bone fractures are common, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential. With cold compresses, medications, and surgery, most patients can restore normal nasal function and appearance. Paying attention to care during recovery and avoiding secondary injuries can help speed up the recovery process.