A broken nose, medically known as a nasal fracture, involves a crack or break in the bone or cartilage within the nose. While it might seem like a minor injury, especially if the initial pain and swelling subside, neglecting a broken nose can lead to various long-term health and aesthetic consequences. Prompt medical attention following a suspected nasal injury is recommended to prevent complications and ensure proper healing.
Physical Appearance Changes
Leaving a broken nose untreated can permanently alter its appearance. The fractured bones or cartilage may heal in a misaligned position, causing the nose to appear crooked, twisted, or asymmetrical.
A severe untreated break can result in a “saddle nose” deformity, where the bridge of the nose collapses. This occurs when the underlying cartilage or bone support is damaged and not properly restored, leading to a flattened or concave appearance of the nasal bridge. These cosmetic changes are permanent without surgical intervention, impacting facial harmony.
Breathing and Nasal Function Issues
An untreated broken nose impairs normal respiratory function. A common consequence is the development of a deviated septum, where the wall of bone and cartilage separating the nostrils shifts significantly. This deviation can narrow one or both nasal passages, leading to chronic nasal obstruction and difficulty breathing through the nose.
Chronic nasal obstruction can result in persistent nasal congestion, forcing individuals to breathe through their mouths, especially during sleep. This mouth breathing can contribute to increased snoring and, in more severe cases, exacerbate or lead to obstructive sleep apnea. Reduced airflow through the nasal passages can also diminish the sense of smell, affecting the ability to fully experience flavors and detect odors.
Serious Health Risks
Beyond cosmetic and functional issues, an untreated broken nose can pose serious medical complications. A significant concern is the formation of a septal hematoma, a blood collection under the nasal septum’s lining. If this blood clot is not drained promptly, it can cut off the blood supply to the septal cartilage, leading to tissue death or necrosis.
Cartilage necrosis can result in a septal perforation or contribute to the development of a saddle nose deformity. A septal hematoma can also become infected within 72 hours, potentially forming a septal abscess. In rare but severe cases, particularly if the skull base is compromised by the fracture, an infection from the nose can spread to surrounding areas, including the brain, potentially leading to serious conditions such as meningitis.
Ongoing Discomfort and Quality of Life
Leaving a broken nose untreated can lead to persistent discomfort and a diminished quality of life. Many individuals experience ongoing pain or tenderness in the nasal area long after the initial injury. Chronic nosebleeds are also a common issue, occurring due to damage to the fragile blood vessels within the nasal lining.
Altered nasal passages can also increase sensitivity to environmental allergens, leading to more frequent or severe allergy symptoms. These chronic issues, including difficulty breathing, interrupted sleep patterns from snoring or sleep apnea, and persistent discomfort, can negatively impact daily activities, concentration, and overall well-being.