Nose looks swollen, crooked, or different than normal


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Nose looks swollen, crooked, or different than normal


Some swelling is normal after a nose injury, and your nose may look crooked. Home treatment can often help reduce swelling.

Medical evaluation is needed after a nose injury if:

  • You have a cut or puncture in the skin over a possible broken nose. Bacteria can enter at the site of a cut or puncture and cause a serious infection.
  • You have a large amount of blood in the nasal septum (nasal septal hematoma).
  • Your nose is severely moved out of its normal position.
  • You have persistent drainage from one or both nostrils. This may be caused by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) draining from the brain into the nose (CSF rhinorrhea) and can occur after a head injury or after surgery on the nose or ears.
  • You have a nosebleed you cannot stop (epistaxis).

Credits


Author Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology
Last Updated April 20, 2007

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Last updated: April 20, 2007
Author: Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By: William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.

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