About Nose Bleeding

Overview

Nosebleeds are a fairly common occurrence, but they can be worrisome. Although most nosebleeds do not indicate a serious problem, they can still be inconvenient. In some instances, nosebleeds, especially frequent ones, indicate a serious health problem, such as cancer or high blood pressure.

Identification

Nosebleeds normally happen as the result of irritation and breaking of small blood vessels in the nose. According to the Mayo Clinic, most nosebleeds in children and young adults occur as a result of damaged blood vessels in the septum of the nose, just inside the nostrils. In the elderly, however, nosebleeds can begin farther up into the nose.

Causes

There are many things that can cause a nosebleed, including picking your nose, getting something stuck in your nose, over-exuberant blowing of the nose or repeated sneezing. Nosebleeds can also be caused by blood thinners (such as high doses of aspirin) or from allergies or a respiratory infection. Frequent nosebleeds can be caused by allergies, high blood pressure, a bleeding problem such as leukemia or anemia or a tumor in the nose.

First Aid

To treat a nosebleed at home, sit down in an upright position and lean forward, which will reduce the blood pressure in your nose and keep you from swallowing blood. Next, pinch your nose using your thumb and index finger for five to 10 minutes. If this does not work, apply ice to the area and try pinching again.

Seeking Medical Attention

If the bleeding has not stopped after 20 minutes, you should see a doctor. In addition, if the bleeding happened after a blow to the head, or if the nose looks like it is broken, it is also important to seek medical attention. You should also see a doctor if you experience frequent nosebleeds with no apparent cause.

Medical Treatments

If a nosebleed requires a doctor, he or she may look to lower your blood pressure and then pack the nose to try to soak up the blood and help it clot. Other options include trying to close the broken blood vessel using heat, an electric current or silver nitrate sticks. If the bleeding is due to a broken nose or some other injury, it will need to be repaired. If your nosebleeds are frequent, your doctor may want to run tests to see if there is an underlying cause or he may direct you to see a specialist.