What it is
If the nose is still crooked once the swelling has gone down, it can often be straightened in a small procedure, ideally within about 2 weeks of the injury.
Ice packs and painkillers help with the swelling and pain at first.
Common signs
- Pain and swelling of the nose
- A nosebleed
- Bruising around the nose and eyes
- A nose that looks crooked
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination, often repeated after the swelling goes down
- X-rays are not usually needed
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- ENT or emergency department letters
- Photos before and after the injury, if the shape has changed
Questions to ask your doctor
- Does the nose need straightening, and when?
- Is there a blood collection inside the nose (septal haematoma)?
- When can I return to contact sport?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Clear fluid running from the nose, a nosebleed that will not stop, difficulty breathing, or a head injury with drowsiness or being sick: go to an emergency department
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.