Nosebleeds in teenagers or children are rarely a cause for concern. There are a variety of causes, and although some people may leap to conclusions about a nefarious cause, like drug use, the most common causes are far more benign. Some teens are more prone to nosebleeds than others. The proximity of blood vessels to the nasal lining is the primary determining factor in a teen's susceptibility.
Causes
Nosebleeds occur when small blood vessels just beneath the nose's interior lining burst. This itself has several causes in teenagers. A dried-out nasal lining is the most common. This sometimes results as a symptom of colds, allergies, sinus problems and other illnesses. Atmospheres with low humidity can contribute too. Nosebleeds also result from excessive nose picking, blowing or scratching. Injury to the nose, as from a fight or sports mishap, may lead to nosebleeds as well. Drugs ingested via the nose, such as cocaine and speed, can also cause nosebleed.
Treatment
Teenagers can generally stop their nosebleeds easily. Using tissues, paper towels, a washcloth or other absorbent material, pinch the lower half of the nose closed with steady, strong pressure. Hold the nose closed for at least five minutes, but preferably up to 10. Refrain from releasing before the time is up to see whether bleeding has stopped, as this interferes with clotting. Lean the head forward to avoid swallowing blood, which can trigger nausea and vomiting. A cold compress to the bridge of the nose helps slow and stop a nosebleed too.
Prevention
Though not quite children anymore, teenagers may still need discouragement from nose picking. Over-the-counter medications remedy symptoms of illnesses causing nosebleeds, and saline drops or petroleum jelly applied just inside the nose keeps its lining moist. Sleeping with a humidifier helps prevent nosebleeds related to dry air as well. Proper face protection during sports participation safeguards against injuries that may result in nosebleeds. Avoid nose picking and blowing, heavy lifting and high levels of activity following a nosebleed to prevent recurrence. Teenagers with frequent nosebleeds can have the problematic blood vessel cauterized by a doctor as a preventive measure.
Warnings
If a teenager's nosebleed doesn't stop within 20 minutes of consistent pressure or if it is accompanied by bleeding elsewhere or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention. Nosebleeds resulting from a broken nose, embedded foreign object or other injury also require medical attention. Significant blood loss calls for medical attention, too, and the teen should not drive herself to the emergency room. If you observe nosebleeds in a teenager who exhibits some of the many, varied other signs of drug abuse, determine an appropriate course for intervention depending on your relationship to the individual.
