Fractured nose
Introduction
A broken nose is a common injury, usually caused by a blow to the face. Most broken noses heal naturally in two to three weeks and they can often be managed at home.
The swelling should go down within a week, and the bruising should disappear after two weeks.
This page describes the signs of a broken nose and gives advice on what to do.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 4 Jan 2017
Introduction
Read about the signs of a broken nose, and find out how to look after your nose at home and when you should seek medical advice.
How do I know if Ive broken my nose?
A broken nose will be painful, swollen and red. Other typical symptoms include: bruising around the eyes ( Eye, black ) a nosebleed tenderness when you touch the nose a crunching or crackling so
Caring for your nose at home
You can often manage your broken nose at home by following the advice below: Hold an ice pack (frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel will also work) to the nose for 10-15 minutes every few hours for th
When to see your GP
Contact your GP if: the pain gets worse or is not relieved by ordinary painkillers (your GP may be able to prescribe a stronger painkiller) the swelling doesn't go down after a few days the swelli
When to go to hospital
Go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department if: you have a nosebleedthat won't stop you have an open wound over your nose clear fluid is trickling from your nose (this could ind
Treatment for a severely broken nose
If your nose is crooked or the skin is broken, you'll probably need to be assessed and treated in hospital. A doctor may be able to realign your nose using special instruments under general anaesthet
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