A broken nose requires evaluation and treatment by emergency medical professionals to prevent more serious injuries.Most cases heal on their own.If you have symptoms such as a crooked or twisted nose, uncontrollable bleeding, or a head or neck injury, you should see a doctor.If you have to, take over-the-counter medication to manage pain and swelling.
Step 1: If you have serious symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
If you suspect you have a head or neck injury, you should get help right away.Symptoms of a head or neck injury include neck pain, neck stiffness, numbness or tingling, blurred vision, slurred speech, and loss of consciousness.If you or someone you know has a head or neck injury, call the emergency services.Don't try to move the injured person.If you do not have any of the symptoms, your nose will heal on its own.
Step 2: If you have a nose bleed, lie down and lean forward.
The nose bleeds almost always accompany the broken nose.If you have one, breathe through your mouth and lean forward to minimize the amount of blood that enters your throat.You can find a cloth or paper towel nearby, or ask someone to grab one for you.It is a good idea to sit in case of dizziness or lightheadedness.
Step 3: If you need to stop the bleeding, gently squeeze the bridge of your nose.
If you can do it without making the pain worse, squeeze the bridge of your nose.Try to hold the pressure until the bleeding stops.If your nose bleeds for more than 30 minutes, you should seek medical attention.
Step 4: Clean your nose.
If you're worried about getting blood everywhere, get your nose bleed under control first.Use a clean cloth, soap and warm water to tend to wounds.Don't put too much pressure on your nose or scrub hard.If you have a cut that is deeper than 4 in (0.64 cm), you should go to an emergency clinic or hospital.
Step 5: Ice is applied for 20 minutes every 1 to 2 hours.
Wrap ice or an ice pack in a clean cloth to reduce swelling.Don't apply too much pressure and hold it to your nose.Apply ice to your nose for at least 1 to 2 hours after the injury, or until the swelling goes away.Ice shouldn't be applied to your skin.It could cause damage to the skin.
Step 6: Take it as directed.
Take an over-the-counter medication to manage pain and swelling.According to the instructions on the label, take your medication.
Step 7: When you sleep, raise your head.
Keeping your head above your heart will help reduce swelling.Extra pillows should be placed under your head and upper body when you sleep.It's best to sleep on your back.If you are worried that you will roll over and put pressure on your nose overnight, invest in a nose guard.You can get one at your pharmacy.
Step 8: Do not engage in activities that could make your injury worse.
It is possible to continue doing most activities, but be careful not to hurt your nose.Avoid strenuous exercise and lifting heavy objects if you want to play any contact sports.It's possible to increase blood flow to your nose by expelling yourself.Unless you apply ice, clean cuts or otherwise care for your nose, don't touch it.If you have glasses, don't wear them until the swelling improves.
Step 9: If necessary, break up mucus with a decongestant.
If you have a broken nose, take an over-the-counter liquid or capsule as directed.Taking hot showers and breathing in the stream through your nose can help.If you blow your nose, ask your doctor before taking any medication.
Step 10: Allow 3-6 weeks for your nose to heal.
It usually heals in a few weeks.Within 3 days, there should be no pain or swelling.Within 2 weeks, it should get better.
Step 11: If symptoms don't improve after 3 days, see a doctor.
You should schedule an appointment if you haven't seen a doctor.They will perform an examination and ask you questions.If you can't tell whether or not your symptoms are getting better, be careful.Within 3 to 5 days after the injury, get a check-up.If your nose is displaced or you have serious symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.
Step 12: Tell the doctor about your injuries and symptoms.
Tell the doctor how you broke your nose.If swelling makes it hard to see the details of your nose, information about the injury can help them understand the extent of the trauma.A broken nose can be diagnosed by a doctor with a physical exam and patient history.x-rays and other scans are usually unnecessary.
Step 13: If you have a small displacement, get a manual realignment.
Your doctor will schedule a follow-up visit within 3 to 5 days if your nose is still swollen.They can perform an in-office procedure to realign the bones in your nose once the swelling has subsided.The doctor will numb your nose to prevent you from feeling anything during the procedure.They will use instruments to put your bones back in place.For up to 3 weeks, you may have to wear a nose splint.You may need surgery if your nose is displaced.
Step 14: Undergo surgery for a serious injury.
Severe cases of broken noses may require surgery.General anesthesia means that you will be asleep during the operation.You should be able to go home after the surgery is over.Your doctor told you to change your dressing and clean the incision site.Ice is applied to manage pain and swelling.Take your medicine according to your doctor's instructions.It is possible to rest for up to a week after surgery.Keep your head and upper torso elevated with extra pillows.For 2 to 3 weeks, you need to wear internal or external nose splints.Your doctor will keep an eye on the healing process at your follow-up appointments.