What are the signs and symptoms of a broken nose?
Most broken noses are going to immediately result in nasal bleeding. The blood can be coming from both the inside of the nose from the fracture and outside of the nose from lacerations and/or abrasions incurred during the impact. One of the best indicators of a broken nose is the alignment of the nose. Have the athlete look into a mirror as soon after the impact as possible and prior to the swelling setting in. Have the athlete check the bridge of the nose to see if it looks straight. The nose may also look flattened or asymmetrical. The nasal airway may be obstructed making it difficult for the athlete to breathe through both nostrils. As time passes, the tissue around the nose and below the eyes will begin to swell. Discoloration will also begin to set in and will increase in color during the 48 hours post-injury.
