Nosebleeds seem alarming, but they're often not a cause for major concern. These episodes occur when there's bleeding in the nose. In this Fitie article, we'll explore the common causes of nosebleeds and how to treat them.
Nosebleeds happen when the tiny blood vessels inside the nose, near the front and back, get damaged. These vessels are delicate and prone to injury, leading to nosebleeds. They can affect adults and children, particularly those aged 3 to 10 years.
Types of Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds come in two main types, depending on where the bleeding occurs:
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Anterior Nosebleed or Anterior Epistaxis: This type involves bleeding from blood vessels at the front of the nose.
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Posterior Nosebleed or Posterior Epistaxis: These nosebleeds happen at the back or inside the nose. In some cases, the blood from these ruptured vessels may flow into the throat, which can be more concerning.
Common Causes of Nosebleeds
Numerous factors can trigger nosebleeds, but dry air is one of the most frequent culprits. Residing in a dry environment or heating systems can lead to dry nasal membranes.
Dry nasal membranes can result in skin inside the nose becoming parched and itchy. Scratching or picking at the nose can lead to sores and, consequently, nosebleeds. Other causes of nosebleeds include:
- Irritation due to chemicals
- Foreign objects entering the nose
- Allergic reactions
- Repeated forceful sneezing
- Nose-picking
- Exposure to cold air
- Injuries to the nose
Handling Nosebleeds
The approach to treating nosebleeds depends on their type and cause.
- For Anterior Nosebleeds: If you're experiencing an anterior nosebleed, where blood flows from the nostrils, you can manage it at home. Sit down and gently pinch the soft part of your nose, ensuring both nostrils are fully closed. Maintain this pressure for 10 minutes while leaning forward and breathing through your mouth. Avoid lying down as it may lead to swallowing blood. You can also use a cold compress.
- For Posterior Nosebleeds: Posterior nosebleeds, which originate deeper within the nose, tend to flow towards the throat. This type is rarer but more serious and should not be treated at home. Seek immediate medical attention for proper care.
While most nosebleeds resolve without specific medical treatment, do not hesitate to seek help if a nosebleed persists for over 20 minutes.
To prevent nosebleeds, consider using a humidifier in your living space, avoid nose-picking, limit aspirin use, and apply a nasal gel to maintain moisture.
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Source:
Higuera, V. & Luo, E. K. (2019). What Causes Nosebleeds and How to Treat Them. Healthline. [online]. https://www.healthline.com/health/nosebleed