Nasal trauma can be caused by injury or when foreign objects are placed in the nasal passage, resulting in bleeding, a physical deformity, a decreased ability to breathe normally because of obstruction, or an impaired sense of smell.
Causes of Nasal Trauma
Blunt trauma is the most common cause of nasal fractures. Automobile accidents, altercations, and falls account for approximately 85% of all nasal fractures.
The nasal bones are the most frequently fractured facial bones due to their position on the face, and they are the third most common type of bone fracture in general after fractures of the wrist and collarbone.
Treatment for Nasal Trauma
Treatment of nasal fractures depends on the extent of the injury. The most difficult fractures to treat are those that involve the nasal septum. For markedly displaced bones, surgeons will attempt to return the nasal bones to a straighter position. This is usually done within seven to ten days after injury, so that the bones don't heal in a displaced position.