Contraindication immediately following orbital fracture?

• A. Eating
• B. Running
• C. Blowing Your Nose
• D. Sleeping

Answer: (C)

Blowing your nose is contraindicated after an orbital fracture because it dramatically increases intranasal and sinus pressure. The fracture, often a blowout of the orbital floor, creates a connection with the maxillary sinus. When you blow your nose, air can be forced through that fracture into the orbit, causing orbital emphysema. This extra air can raise pressure inside the orbit, potentially impairing vision, causing double vision, or even compressing the optic nerve or muscles. For this reason, nose blowing is avoided in the immediate period after the injury.

Eating, running, or sleeping don’t create the same sudden pressure change in the orbit, so they’re not contraindicated for this reason. If you notice worsening vision, increasing swelling, or severe pain, seek medical care promptly.