Broken Nose – Symptoms and Causes

Overview

A nasal fracture, commonly known as a broken nose, occurs when a bone in your nose breaks or cracks, typically the bone over the bridge.

This injury is one of the most common facial injuries and often results from trauma to the face, such as contact sports, physical fights, falls, or car accidents.

When your nose breaks, you’ll likely experience pain, bleeding, swelling, and bruising around the nose and under the eyes. The nose may appear crooked or misshapen, and breathing through it can become difficult. Nosebleeds are also a frequent symptom.

A healthcare provider can diagnose a broken nose with a physical exam and may also order imaging tests to assess the severity of the injury.

Most broken noses don’t require surgery. Treatment usually involves procedures to realign the nose properly. Seeking proper medical attention helps ensure correct healing and prevents potential breathing problems and complications.

Janis
Janis

Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.