A broken nose is a break, or fracture, of the bone or cartilage. Most broken noses need only home care and a follow-up visit with a doctor. The swelling should go down in a few days. Bruises around your child's eyes and nose should go away in 2 to 3 weeks.
Healthy habits can help your child heal. Give your child a variety of healthy foods. And don't smoke around your child.
Symptoms of a broken nose include:
Immediately after the fracture, apply ice and keep your head elevated. You may need pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (for example, Tylenol). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) or aspirin, for 48 hours after a nose injury. Do not take aspirin if you are younger than 20 because of the risk of Reye syndrome.
Immediate treatment is needed for some injuries that occur with a broken nose, such as:
Treatment, if needed, usually is done within 7 to 14 days of breaking your nose. Most broken noses do not require treatment other than controlling pain and other symptoms.
A broken nose is diagnosed through a physical exam and medical history. An X-ray of the nose may be done. If other facial injuries or fractures are suspected, a CT scan will be done. Your doctor may wish to delay evaluation until the swelling has gone down. This may take several days.
Possible complications of a broken nose include:
A broken nose is a break, or fracture, in the bone or cartilage. Most broken noses only need home care and a follow-up visit with a doctor. The swelling should go down in a few days. Bruises around your eyes and nose should go away in 2 to 3 weeks.
You can break your nose during play, sports, accidents, fights, and falls. But it may be hard to tell if your nose is broken. Swelling can make your nose look crooked even if it is not broken. When the swelling goes down after a few days, it is easier to tell if your nose is really crooked and possibly broken.
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
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