The human nose contains many fragile blood vessels that are easily damaged. Nose bleeds, or epistaxis, can happen in the front (anterior) or back (posterior) of the human nose and are quite common. According to the Hughston Sports Medicine Foundation, at least 11 percent of Americans have a nose bleed at least once in their lifetime. Athletes frequently experience nose bleeds, most often from sports-related trauma. Most of the time these injuries are not serious and do not require medical intervention. Other causes, however, may require medical treatment.
Trauma
A blow directly to the nose may bring on a nose bleed by damaging blood vessels in the front of the nose. This can happen in any sport or even during the course of a regular day. These nose bleeds are generally not dangerous and can be stopped easily, requiring no medical intervention. A nose bleed can also occur after a more serious head trauma, which may indicate a fractured skull. Medical treatment should be sought immediately if a fracture is suspected or if the nose is broken.
Nasal Irritation
The common cold, dry air and allergies can all lead to nose bleeds. Repeated sneezing and nose blowing can irritate the mucous membranes in the nose, injuring the blood vessels. This can lead to mild to severe bleeding. If dry air is the culprit of a nose bleed, consider running an air humidifier in the house to reduce dryness and moisten mucus membranes. Saline nasal spray may also be helpful. Home treatment is recommended to stop the bleeding. If bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes, seek medical help.
System Disorders
Nose bleeds occasionally indicate a larger problem. A nose bleed that occurs in the back of the nose, causing blood to flow down the throat, can be dangerous if it occurs for no reason in an older person. These types of nose bleeds may point to high blood pressure, kidney disease, daily aspirin use or bleeding disorders. Consult a doctor if bleeding persists for longer than 20 minutes or if nose bleeds recur frequently, particularly if the nose bleed occurs in an older person.
