S02.2

Clinical Causes: Physical assault or fight Sports injuries, especially in contact sports like football, boxing, or hockey Falls onto the face Car accidents or other events causing facial trauma Accidental bumps or blows during outdoor activities

Key Symptoms: Pain and tenderness around the nose Swelling and bruising on the face Deformity or misalignment of the nasal structure Nasal bleeding or congestion Difficulty breathing through the nose Tenderness when touching the nose A visible bump or irregularity on the nasal bridge

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional, who will assess for deformity, swelling, and tenderness. To confirm the extent of the injury and rule out other facial fractures, imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans may be employed. These imaging techniques help in visualizing the nasal bones and determining whether a fracture is present and if it has caused any associated injuries to surrounding structures.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment depends on the severity of the fracture. Common approaches include: - **Initial care:** Applying ice packs to reduce swelling, managing pain with over-the-counter medications, and keeping the head elevated. - **Medical evaluation:** A healthcare provider may perform a manual realignment or reduction of the nasal bones if needed, preferably within the first few days after injury. - **Surgical intervention:** In cases of severe displacement or complex fractures, surgical correction may be necessary, which involves realignment and stabilization of the nasal bones. - **Post-treatment care:** Following treatment, patients might need to avoid strenuous activities, blow their nose gently, and follow specific instructions to support healing. - **Follow-up:** Regular check-ups to monitor recovery and address any cosmetic or functional concerns, such as breathing issues or deformities.