Nosebleeds can be unpleasant for both child and parent, but the majority of nosebleeds in children are self-limiting. About 9 percent of children have recurring nosebleeds, and most grow out of the problem, according to Dr. Gerald W. McGarry in a review published on the Clinical Evidence website. Nosebleeds in children don't carry any special risks. Often, dry air or nose picking causes the problem. If your child has nosebleeds once a week or more, consult a pediatrician.
Types
Most nosebleeds are anterior nosebleeds. This type comes from the front of the nose. Small blood vessels breaking and bleeding commonly cause it. The other, less common nosebleed, a posterior nosebleed, comes from the back of the nose. The blood from a posterior nosebleed flows down the back of the throat. This type does not often occur in children and causes include, injury and high blood pressure.
Common Causes
Dry air will cause the lining of the nose to dry out and itch, which causes bleeding when scratched or picked. Colds can also cause this type of irritation, especially with repeated nose blowing. Allergies can cause irritation of the lining of the nose. The antihistamines used to treat allergies dry out the nose. A blow to the nose sometimes causes bleeding and as long as the bleeding stops within 10 minutes, it does not signify a serious problem. A foreign body in the nose can also make it bleed.
Less Common Causes
Less common causes include a bleeding disorder, such as hemophilia. Leukemia or lupus also can cause nosebleeds. Abnormally formed blood vessels rarely occur but could cause nosebleeds. Another uncommon cause is exposure to toxic fumes. Polyps in the nose could make it bleed and should be treated without delay. Chronic illness, especially the type that requires the use of oxygen, increases the risk of nosebleeds.
First Aid
You can safely treat nosebleeds at home. In the event of a nosebleed, have the child sit in a chair. Tilt the head slightly forward; don't tilt the head back as this will cause blood to run down the throat and may cause vomiting. Firmly pinch the lower half of the nose and hold it for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes of pressure, stop and see if the bleeding has stopped. If not, repeat pressure for another 10 minutes. If after two attempts the bleeding does not stop, seek emergency treatment. After the bleeding has stopped, have the child play quietly for a short time.
