A broken nose, also known as a nasal fracture, is a common injury that affects thousands of people each year. It typically occurs when there is a forceful impact to the nose, such as from a fall, sporting activity, or physical altercation.

While a broken nose can be painful and cause temporary disfigurement, it can also have long-term effects on your health. Here are some of the risks associated with a broken nose:.

Difficulty Breathing

One of the most common complications of a broken nose is difficulty breathing. This is because the nose plays a critical role in breathing by allowing air to flow through the nostrils and into the lungs.

When the nose is broken, the airway can become obstructed, making it difficult to breathe. Depending on the severity of the injury, this can be a temporary or permanent problem.

Chronic Sinusitis

If a broken nose is not treated promptly, it can increase the risk of chronic sinusitis. This condition occurs when the sinuses become inflamed, leading to symptoms such as congestion, facial pain, and headaches.

Chronic sinusitis can also be accompanied by fatigue, coughing, and difficulty sleeping. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat this condition.

Facial Disfigurement

A broken nose can also lead to facial disfigurement. This can occur if the bones in your nose do not heal properly, causing a permanent change in the shape of your face.

While cosmetic surgery may be an option for some people, it can be expensive and may not always be covered by insurance.

Nose Bleeds

Another risk associated with a broken nose is nosebleeds. This is because the fragile blood vessels in the nose can be damaged during the injury.

While most nosebleeds are not severe, they can be a recurring issue and may require medical attention if they persist for an extended period of time.

Loss of Smell

In some cases, a broken nose can also lead to a loss of smell. This can occur if the injury damages the olfactory nerves, which are responsible for transmitting signals to the brain related to smell.

While this is a rare complication, it can greatly impact a person’s quality of life and require specialized treatment.

Headaches and Migraines

A broken nose can also increase the likelihood of headaches and migraines. This is because the trauma to the nose can cause inflammation and nerve damage, leading to headache pain.

In some cases, migraines may become chronic and require specialized treatment.

Concussion

In cases where a broken nose is accompanied by a head injury, there is also an increased risk of concussion. A concussion occurs when the brain is jostled inside the skull, leading to symptoms such as headache, dizziness, confusion, and memory loss.

If you experience any of these symptoms after a head injury, seek medical attention immediately.

Psychological Effects

Finally, a broken nose can also have psychological effects on a person. This is particularly true if the injury causes significant facial disfigurement or results in chronic pain or breathing difficulties.

People who suffer from these types of injuries may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.