Sports injuries can cause potentially serious broken bones or fractures of the face. Common symptoms of facial fractures include:

• swelling and bruising, such as a black eye
• pain or numbness in the face, cheeks or lips
• double or blurred vision
• nosebleeds
• changes in teeth structure or ability to close mouth properly

It is important to pay attention to swelling because it may be masking a more serious injury. Applying ice packs and keeping the head elevated may reduce early swelling.

If any of these symptoms occur, be sure to visit the emergency room or the office of a facial plastic surgeon (such as an otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeon) where x-rays may be taken to determine if there is a fracture.