Nasal fracture

Nasal fracture
Other names	Broken nose
Plain X-ray showing a nasal fracture
Specialty	Emergency medicine, otorhinolaryngology
Symptoms	Nose bleed, swelling, bruising[1][2][3]
Complications	Septal hematoma, other facial fractures, meningitis[1]
Usual onset	Young males[4]
Causes	Assault, trauma during sports, falls, motor vehicle collisions[1]
Diagnostic method	Typically based on symptoms, occasionally plain X rays[1]
Treatment	Pain medication, cold compresses, possible reduction post resolution of swelling[1]
Prognosis	Generally good[5]
Frequency	Common[4]

A nasal fracture, commonly referred to as a broken nose, is a fracture of one of the bones of the nose.^[3] Symptoms may include bleeding, swelling, bruising, and an inability to breathe through the nose.^[1][3] They may be complicated by other facial fractures or a septal hematoma.^[1]

The most common causes include assault, trauma during sports, falls, and motor vehicle collisions.^[1] Diagnosis is typically based on the signs and symptoms and may occasionally be confirmed by plain X-ray.^[1]

Treatment is typically with pain medication and cold compresses.^[1] Reduction, if needed, can typically occur after the swelling has come down.^[1] Depending on the type of fracture reduction may be closed or open.^[3] Outcomes are generally good.^[5] Nasal fractures are common, comprising about 40% of facial fractures.^[1][4] Males in their 20s are most commonly affected.^[3]