The nose contains a large amount of blood vessels and is susceptible to injury because of its location. Nosebleeds can originate from the front or back of the nose. They can also occur in just one or both nostrils. Most nosebleeds are not a cause for concern, but if bleeding persists or there is a large amount of blood loss it may be a sign of a serious medical problem. A health care provider can assist in diagnosing and treating individual causes of nosebleeds.
Dry Air
Dry air is a prominent cause of nosebleeds. The skin inside the nose is sensitive and can become brittle from dryness. Low humidity can irritate the nose and dry out the nasal membranes. When the nasal membranes dry out, it can cause crusting in the nose and make the nose more susceptible to bleeding. The University of Alabama at Birmingham notes that indoor heating systems also commonly cause nosebleeds by increasing the likelihood of bleeding from the blood vessels beneath the nasal membranes because of damage and dry nasal membranes. Further complications can occur from picking a dry nose, which can cause trauma and irritation to the nose.
Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis occurs from abnormal immune reactions to inhaled substances. The condition can manifest seasonally or occur year-round. Those who experience allergic rhinitis have allergic reactions to outdoor or indoor allergens. An allergen is something that triggers an allergy and can include pollen or dust. The American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology reports that rhinitis is one of the most common chronic conditions, affecting 10 to 30 percent of adults and as many as 40 percent of children in the U.S. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis usually start immediately after exposure to allergens and may include watery or itchy eyes, nasal congestion, sneezing, decreased sense of smell or taste and nosebleeds from irritation. Non-allergic rhinitis may also cause nosebleeds and develop from the use of medications or irritants.
Deviated Septum
A deviated septum is a common disorder of the nose in which the nasal septum shifts to one side. The nasal septum is the wall inside of the nose that separates the nasal passages. Those with deviated septums experience a displacement of the septum that results in one narrower and one wider side of the nasal passage. Approximately 80 percent of people experience this condition and it commonly results from injury, according to Georgia Health Info. The shift in the nasal septum can make it difficult to breathe through the nostrils. Other symptoms of a deviated septum include nasal congestion, nosebleeds, frequent sinus infections and sleep apnea.
