The nose is the most commonly fractured area on the head, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, and while children often bump their noses without causing a fracture, a severe blow can break bone and cartilage. Long-term complications, such as obvious deformity of the nose and breathing difficulties, can be prevented with proper medical treatment.
Symptoms
A child with a broken nose may have pain in the nose, face or head, and he may have trouble breathing through his nose. The nose can appear misshapen, although sometimes it is difficult to see any deformity until the swelling has subsided, according to MedlinePlus. A broken nose may bleed or emit clear fluid, and bruising may be noticeable in the nose area and under the child's eyes. A grinding sound or feeling is sometimes noticeable when a broken nose is touched, according to Drugs.com.
First Aid
If the nose is bleeding, have the child lean forward and breathe through his mouth. Apply ice to decrease any swelling and pain. It may be helpful to let the child apply the ice so you do not press too hard and cause additional pain. Over-the-counter acetaminophen, administered according to package directions, can relieve any pain the child experiences after the injury, according to MedlinePlus.
Treatment
Minor nasal fractures often do not need treatment if the nose is not out of place. If the child's nose is broken and out of position, a doctor may be able to reposition it during an office visit, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery. In severe cases, a nasal fracture must be surgically repaired.
Considerations
X-rays and other tests may not be helpful in determining whether a child's nose is broken. A fracture may not be obvious until the swelling subsides and the nose appears misshapen. If the child is not displaying serious symptoms, her doctor might reexamine the nose a few days after the injury to see if deformities are obvious. However, the American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery recommends that a child with a possible broken nose receive medical attention within one week of the injury. If too much time passes before treatment, the child might have to wait several months and then have the nose surgically corrected.
Warning
Never try to straighten a broken nose yourself. If your child has severe symptoms, such as major bleeding, fainting or weakness, seek emergency medial attention. Consult your child's doctor or seek medical attention if the nose will not stop bleeding, if clear fluid is leaking, if the child is in severe pain or if there are any obvious serious injuries or deformities. If the child cannot breathe through the nose or if signs of infection, such as redness, fever or yellow discharge, develop, seek medical attention, according to the Seattle Children's Hospital.
