Could My Nose Be Fractured?
At 17 years old, standing 5'3" and weighing 45 kg, I don't take any medications or similar treatments. Hello, physicians. I experienced a fainting spell on Thursday, resulting in a fall where I landed face-first. When I regained consciousness, I had a nosebleed, and my nose prominently displayed swelling and redness, especially at the bridge and on both sides. The pain was quite severe, prompting me to visit the emergency room. To summarize, I sustained a concussion; however, after examining my nose, the doctor indicated that while it likely isn't fractured, a follow-up would be necessary. Now, four days have passed, and the noticeable bump on my nose has increased in size. While the swelling has subsided slightly on the sides, the pain persists intensely, even without any pressure applied. I'm curious if any of you believe that it might actually be broken. Currently, I can see the bump while looking with my peripheral vision, and where my nose used to be straight, it now appears crooked. The bump's increased size from just yesterday is alarming. Today, I plan to return to the hospital for an earlier visit, even though my scheduled check-up isn't until later, as I'm feeling quite anxious about my situation.
Answers (1)
3/24/2025, 2:50:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your nose after experiencing a fainting spell and a fall. Given your symptoms—persistent pain, swelling, and a noticeable bump that seems to be increasing—there's a possibility of a fracture or other injury that may not have been identified initially.
Explanation:
After a fall, injuries to the nose can range from soft tissue damage (like bruising and swelling) to fractures. Since you've experienced increased swelling and a change in the shape of your nose, it is possible that there may be a fracture, even if it was not confirmed initially. The fact that the pain persists without pressure and that the bump is now more pronounced are important indicators that should be evaluated.
Next Steps:
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Return to the Hospital: Since you plan to return to the hospital today, go ahead with that. Express your concerns about the bump and pain to the healthcare provider, and mention any changes since your last visit. They may want to do imaging, like an X-ray, to check for fractures.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any additional symptoms you may experience, such as increased pain, changes in vision, or difficulty breathing through your nose. Note when these symptoms occur to share with your doctor.
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Apply Cold Compresses: To help with swelling and discomfort, you can apply a cold compress (wrapped in a cloth) to your nose for about 15-20 minutes several times a day. Avoid placing ice directly on the skin to prevent frostbite.
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Pain Management: If needed, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain, but ensure you follow the recommended dosage and guidelines.
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Rest and Avoid Activities: Try to rest and avoid strenuous activities or contact sports until you receive a clear diagnosis from your doctor to prevent further injury.
It’s good that you are seeking further medical advice, as your symptoms warrant a closer look. You're not alone in this; many people have similar concerns after facial injuries. After your visit, make sure to follow any treatment plans your healthcare provider recommends.
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