Broken nose
Overview
Signs and symptoms of a broken nose include pain, swelling and bruising, your nose making a sound when you touch it or your nose changing shape.
You can usually treat a broken nose yourself using ice packs and painkillers. It should heal within 3 weeks.
If your broken nose needs treatment, a GP might prescribe painkillers. In some cases you might be referred to a specialist.
A broken nose will be swollen and painful. It can heal by itself, but get medical help if it has changed shape or does not start to heal after 3 days.
Page last reviewed: 17/08/2023
Next review due: 17/08/2026