A nosebleed, also referred to as epistaxis, occur from conditions such as an injury to the nose, dry air and taking medications that thin the blood, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library Home Edition. First aid treatments are usually enough to stop the bleeding from a nosebleed, but for severe bleeding or bleeding that will not stop; a physician may need to cauterize or pack the nose to control the condition.
Bleeding from the Front of the Nose
Bleeding may occur from the front portion of the nose. Depending on the severity of the nosebleed, the blood may trickle or gush out of the nostrils. Most often, bleeding comes from only one side of the nose, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The blood may begin to back up into the affected nostril and spill into the other nostril, allowing blood to flow out of both nostrils even though the active bleeding occurs in one side. This is the typical symptoms of a nosebleed. The bleeding may continue after pinching the nose closed. To treat a nosebleed, pinch the sides of the nose together with a finger and thumb. Wait at least 10 minutes before releasing the pressure on the nose. The bleeding may continue for up to 20 minutes.
Bleeding from the Back of the Nose
A nosebleed may occur further up in the nose than the usual nosebleed from the septum. This type of nosebleed usually occurs in individuals who suffer from high blood pressure or a hardening of the arteries. The blood may go down the back of the throat when the bleeding occurs high in the nose. Bleeding in the throat may cause choking or nausea and vomiting. The first aid measures such as pinching the nose closed will not stop the bleeding of a posterior nosebleed, according to The Merck Manuals Online Library Home Edition. A physician may need to insert packing into the nose to stop the bleeding.
Hypovolemic Shock
The amount of blood loss from a nosebleed is usually low, especially for bleeding that stops spontaneously. Individuals who are not able to control the bleeding may experience a severe blood loss, called hypovolemic shock. Symptoms of losing too much blood may include dizziness, anxiety, confusion, weakness and fainting. Additional symptoms of continued blood loss may include sweating, increased breathing, cool, clammy skin, paleness and a loss of consciousness.
