• Small fractures of the bone in your nose will generally heal within a month. A bad break may require surgery after the swelling has gone down. Seeking immediate medical attention is important if you believe you have a severely broken nose. If the pain and swelling does not go away within three days, the nose looks crooked, breathing is difficult, a fever develops and you have recurring nosebleeds you should seek medical attention.
  
  

Nosebleed

• If your nose starts to bleed, it is a sign that it may be broken. Discharge of mucus may start to come from your nose as well.
  
  

Crunching or Crackling

• If you touch your nose and hear a crunching or crackling sound or sensation like that of rubbing hair between two fingers, this is a sign that your nose is broken. A feeling of tenderness is also a sign.
  
  

Swelling

• Swelling of your nose and surrounding areas are signs that it is broken. Bruising of your nose or under your eyes are signs as well. Noticing a deformity (such as a crooked, misshapen nose) is a clear indication of a broken bone.
  
  

Pain

• Feeling a great sense of pain and having difficulty breathing through your nose is an indication it is broken. You may also feel as though one or both of your nasal passages are blocked.