NOSE INJURIES

You may have broken your nose. We do not x-ray the nose, as a fracture may not show up, and, also the X-ray result does not alter how we treat it.

Treatment depends on whether or not there is a change in the shape and appearance of the nose.

It can be difficult to see the node is out of shape because there will be a lot of swelling and bruising immediately after the injury. You are the best judge of whether your nose is its normal shape. Please wait five or six days for the swelling and bruising to settle then check in a mirror or with family who know you well whether or not the nose is out of shape. Check also that you are able to breathe through both nostrils.

After being seen in a casualty if one side of the nose becomes blocked you should return immediately to the Emergency Department.

If an operation is required, YOU MUST BE SEEN by ENT doctor within two weeks of the injury because the operation must be carried out within three weeks.

In the meantime, use icepacks or a packet of frozen peas wrapped in a soft towel for ten minutes, three to four times a day to help with the swelling.

Do Not place ice directly onto the skin as this can cause an ice burn

If the nose has bled avoid hot drinks as they may cause the nose to start bleeding again. Don’t blow your nose, as this may make it bleed.

Should your nose bleed:

Sit upright and continuously pinch the soft part of the nose for ten minutes.

Hold a bowl under your nose.

Do not swallow the blood.

Place an ice pack on the top of your nose and forehead.

If despite carrying out the above action your nose continues to bleed after 20 minutes you should return to the Casualty.

Courtesy: Southend Hospital UK