Broken Nose

A broken nose is a crack or break in the bone or cartilage of the nose. A broken nose is the most common facial fracture and usually happens from sports, falls, or a blow to the face. Most heal well with simple care.

What Is It

Swelling often hides whether the nose is crooked for the first few days. Many broken noses do not need treatment. A nose that stays crooked or blocks breathing may need to be set by a specialist within 1 to 2 weeks.

Symptoms

Pain and tenderness of the nose
Swelling
Bruising around the nose and eyes
A nosebleed after the injury
A crooked or bent nose
Trouble breathing through one or both sides

Not sure how serious it is? A nosebleed that is hard to stop is covered under nosebleeds. Headache, confusion, or vomiting after the blow may be a concussion.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider examines the nose, checks the inside for a blood collection, and looks for other facial injuries. X-ray may be used when other facial bones are tender. A nose that stays crooked may need a specialist.

At home:

Apply a cold pack wrapped in cloth for 15 minutes at a time
Sleep with your head raised
Use over the counter pain relievers as directed
Avoid contact sports for at least 2 to 6 weeks

Most broken noses heal within 3 weeks.

When to Get Care for a Broken Nose

Watch at Home

Mild swelling and pain with a straight nose
Breathing normally through both sides

Come to Urgent Care Today

A nose that looks crooked or bent
Trouble breathing through the nose
A nosebleed that is hard to stop
Pain or swelling that is not improving after 3 days

Go to the Emergency Department

A soft, purple swelling inside the nose
Clear fluid draining from the nose
Loss of consciousness, confusion, or vomiting after the injury
Vision changes or trouble opening the mouth

FAQ

How do I know if my nose is broken?

A broken nose usually causes pain, swelling, bruising, and a nosebleed after an injury. A crooked look or trouble breathing through one side are other signs.

Does a broken nose need an X-ray?

Many broken noses do not need an X-ray. An exam is often enough, but X-ray may help when other facial bones are tender.

Can a broken nose heal on its own?

Yes, a broken nose that stays straight usually heals on its own within 3 weeks. A crooked nose may need to be set by a specialist.

When can I play sports after a broken nose?

Most people wait at least 2 to 6 weeks before contact sports after a broken nose. A face guard may help when returning.

Can urgent care treat a broken nose?

Yes, urgent care can check a broken nose. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine the nose, look for other injuries, and X-ray is available on site. No appointment or referral is needed.

When is a broken nose an emergency?

A broken nose is an emergency with clear fluid from the nose, a purple swelling inside the nose, confusion, vomiting, or vision changes.

Last reviewed October 2026