Nosebleeds are a common childhood ailment and usually occur when a small vein in the nasal lining bursts. Although often scary to both children and parents, most causes of bloody noses in children are harmless. There are a few situations, however, in which parents should consult a health care professional to evaluate a nosebleed.
Trauma
Trauma is a common cause of pediatric nosebleeds, according to NetDoctor. This can occur when a child takes a blow to the nose or if a child puts a foreign body up the nostril. While neither is cause for concern, parents should have a doctor remove anything placed up the nose to avoid accidentally pushing it up further into the nasal cavity.
Nasal Congestion
Caused by infection, allergies or even a bad cold, nasal congestion is a common cause of nosebleeds in children. When the nasal lining inside the tip becomes red, sore or crusty from infection, AskDrSears.com notes the area becomes even more sensitive and likely to bleed.
Dry Air
Dry air can dry out the nasal lining and cause nosebleeds. This is especially common during cold winter months, according to KeepKidsHealthy, when household heating systems keep rooms warm. Parents can moisturize nasal passages by sitting their child in a steamy bath or shower for just 20 minutes, or add moisture to the room with a vaporizer or humidifier at night.
Nose Picking and Blowing
Strong nose picking and blowing are other harmless ways to cause nasal irritation, says NetDoctor, and cause nosebleeds. Children whose nasal veins are closer to the surface of the skin are more likely to burst by rough picking or blowing. Parents can help curb this by keeping their child's nails trimmed, and by applying petroleum jelly to the inside of the nose to keep scabs moist and soft.
Blood Clotting Disorder
Although rare, blood clot disorders can cause frequent nosebleeds. Children with this condition usually have other bleeding problems, according to KeepKidsHealthy, and often bruise easily or have a family history of bleeding problems.
