A broken or fractured nose normally occurs from an injury, especially from a fall, playing sports and car accidents. The symptoms of a broken nose include bleeding from the nostrils, blackened eyes, swelling and pain. Treatment for the fracture includes stopping the bleeding, applying ice to the injury and the administration of pain medication. Although most noses that break heal without any more problems, complications may arise. The complications from the fracture may require additional treatments. Surgeons prefer evaluating a broken nose within a week after the injury, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.
Deviated Septum
The septum is the area of cartilage that separates the nose into two sides. When the nose breaks, the septum shifts from the middle of the nose to one side. This condition is called a deviated septum. The deviated septum causes additional problems such as difficulty breathing out of the nose, nosebleeds and an increase in sinus infections. A deviated septum may require surgery to repair the damage. The Mayo Clinic also states that medications, including antihistamines and decongestants, help improve the breathing complications and congested nose symptoms associated with a deviated septum.
Septal Hematoma
When the cartilage located in the nasal septum breaks, blood may begin to collect under the mucous membrane lining, according to Merck. This collection of blood is called a septal hematoma. The septal hematoma can cause death of the cartilage and disintegration. The disintegration may result in a sagging appearance to the bridge of the nose. This is referred to as a saddle-nose deformity. Repairing the deformity is possible with surgery. The surgeon may advise surgery to drain the blood as well, according to the Mayo Clinic. Treating the area of blood collection before the death of the cartilage is important to prevent permanent nose deformity.
Nasal Deformity
After a fracture in the nose, and especially after a deviated septum or septal hematoma, the nose may appear deformed. The healed nose may need plastic surgery to improve its appearance.
Neck Injuries
A blow to the nose forceful enough to break it may also cause a neck injury, according to Medline Plus. This is most common high-impact injuries like those sustained in a car accident. Neck injuries need immediate attention from a medical professional to decrease the chance of permanent injury.
