Broken nose

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs Prevention Lifestyle and home remedies

Definition

A broken nose, also called a nasal fracture, is a break or crack in a bone in your nose — most commonly the bone over the bridge of your nose. A broken nose is a common injury, accounting for about 40 percent of all facial fractures.

The cause of a broken nose is trauma to your face. Common causes include contact sports, physical fights, falls and motor vehicle accidents.

Signs and symptoms of a broken nose include pain, swelling and bruising around the nose and under the eyes. Your nose may look crooked, and you may find it difficult to breathe.

Treatment for a broken nose may include procedures to realign your nose. Surgery rarely may be necessary.

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Symptoms