How to Care for a Swollen Nose
Whether from an injury or the aftermath of a nose surgery, having a swollen nose can be both painful and annoying. The soft tissues fill with blood and the ensuing inflammation can make sleeping, eating, breathing, and talking a little harder. You do not have to just grin and bear it, however. There are things you can do on your own to ease your discomfort until the swelling in your nose goes away.
Instructions
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Sleep as inclined as possible (with your head raised). Staying in this position will allow the blood and other fluids in the nose to drain and will relieve some of the inflammation.
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Apply a cold pack to your nose for ten to fifteen minutes every two to three hours. The cold will help the blood vessels contract and lessen the redness and swelling.
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Avoid any warm environment that will encourage blood flow to the area, such as hot tubs and showers. Do not apply heat until the swelling subsides.
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Take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen both to help with the swelling and for pain management.
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Stay hydrated in order to keep nasal mucus thin and draining. This should help relieve any additional stuffiness.
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Tips & Warnings
If your swollen nose is the result of an injury or if it bleeds continually, you should always consult a doctor to rule out a broken nose before beginning home treatment.
