Broken Nose: Care Instructions

Overview

A broken nose is a break, or fracture, of the bone or cartilage. Most broken noses need only home care and a follow-up visit with a doctor. The swelling should go down in a few days. Bruises around your eyes and nose should go away in 2 to 3 weeks.

Some injuries that may occur with a broken nose need immediate treatment. These include:

• Swelling or a bump on the thin wall (nasal septum) between the nostrils.
• A nosebleed that you cannot stop.
• Clear drainage from one or both nostrils.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• If you have a nasal splint or packing, leave it in place until a doctor removes it.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Take decongestants as directed to help you breathe after the splint or packing is removed. Your doctor may give you a prescription or suggest over-the-counter medicine.
• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Put ice or a cold pack on your nose for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the first 3 days (when you are awake) or until the swelling goes down. Put a thin cloth between the ice pack and your skin.
• Sleep with your head slightly raised until the swelling goes down. Prop up your head and shoulders on pillows.
• Don’t smoke, vape, or use other tobacco or nicotine products. These things slow healing and recovery. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about quit programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
• Ask your doctor when it's okay to return to your usual activities.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You have trouble breathing.
• You passed out (lost consciousness).

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your nose is bleeding.
• You have new or worse pain.
• You have clear fluid draining from your nose.
• You have vision changes.
• You have swelling or a bump on the thin wall (nasal septum) between the nostrils of your nose.
• You have symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Pus draining from the area.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.