A pediatric nasal fracture is a break in one or more bones of the nose of a child, also known as a broken nose. It is one of the three most common pediatric facial bone fractures. Seeing your child with a broken nose can be scary, so it’s helpful to understand the causes and treatment options to advocate for them in the event they have one. Follow these guidelines if you suspect your child has a broken nose to get them back to Ashe County Parks as soon as possible.
What Causes A Nasal Fracture
Nasal fractures are caused by trauma. They occur when force breaks one or more of the two bones that make up the nasal cavity. Potential causes of pediatric nasal fractures:
- Automobile accidents (40%)
- Sports injuries (25%)
- Intended injuries (15%)
- Home injuries (10%)
The injury to the nose is typically obvious. If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms after impact to the nose, they’ve likely experienced a nasal fracture, and you should seek medical attention.
Symptoms of a nasal fracture:
- Nosebleed or nose deformity
- Swelling or bruising of the nose or bruising under the eye
- Tenderness or crunching when touching the nose
- Trouble breathing from the nose
Treatment Options for Nasal Fracture
The severity of the injury and age and overall health of your child will aid in determining treatment options for your child. Some children may need to see an ear, nose and throat specialist immediately, while others may need to let the swelling subside and return. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment plan. Your child will also likely need “reduction,” which is the realignment of the nasal bones to put them back into place. There are two types of reduction:
- Closed reduction—your healthcare provider will physically move the bones back in place
- Open reduction—putting the bones back into place via surgery
If the injury is serious enough, there may be the need for additional surgeries. Doctors may need to restore cosmetic appearance and will guide you through those steps, if necessary. Nasal fractures also require a two-week recovery time, minimum, and no contact sports for six weeks.
If your child has a nasal fracture, contact the specialists at Blue Ridge ENT.