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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U W Y

Nose fracture

Alternative Names

Fracture of the nose; Broken nose

First Aid

  1. Reassure the patient and try to keep the patient calm.
  2. Have the patient breathe through the mouth and lean forward in a sitting position in order to keep blood from going down the back of the throat.
  3. Apply cold compresses to the nose to reduce swelling. If possible, the patient should hold the compress so that there isn't too much pressure on the nose.
  4. To help relieve pain, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is recommended.

DO NOT

  • DO NOT try to straighten a broken nose.
  • DO NOT move the person if there is reason to suspect a head or neck injury.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Get medical help right away if:

Review Date: 1/30/2008
Reviewed By: James L. Demetroulakos, MD, FACS, Department of Otolaryngology, N. Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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