Nosebleeds are common in children, and usually not cause for alarm, according to Medline Plus. Most people, including children, typically get nosebleeds in only one nostril, in the front part of the nose, which contains fragile blood vessels that are susceptible to irritation and injury. There are many common causes of nosebleeds in children, and the majority of children outgrow nosebleeds by the time they become teenagers.
Nasal Irritation
Most nosebleeds occur because the lining of the nasal passages is dry or irritated, reports The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Upper respiratory infections, dry weather, cold weather or allergies frequently cause nasal irritation. When your child rubs, picks or blows his nose, irritated nasal passages towards the front of the nose may bleed. Many kids get nosebleeds in the winter, because they're more likely to have an upper respiratory infection and be exposed to heated buildings that are usually low in humidity.
Nasal Injury
Nasal injury can also break the blood vessels in the nose, causing a bloody nose. For example, getting hit in the face with a basketball or getting elbowed can easily cause a nosebleed. Small children may also put foreign objects up their nose, causing injury and bleeding. See a doctor if you suspect your child has a serious injury, such as a fracture or concussion, or if you cannot remove a foreign object from your child's nose.
Other Causes
Deviated septums can also cause nosebleeds. Taking certain medications, such as blood thinners or decongestant sprays, may also increase the risk of nosebleeds. In rare cases, nosebleeds are a symptom of another disease, such as a bleeding disorder called hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, high blood pressure or a tumor in the sinuses.
Prevention
Reduce bloody noses by teaching kids to avoid picking their nose or blowing it too forcefully. In addition, reduce nasal irritation by using a humidifier in kids' rooms at night and applying petroleum jelly or a saline spray to the inside of the nose. Take your child to her pediatrician if she still has frequent nosebleeds or if her nosebleeds are becoming more frequent. In addition, go to an emergency room if a nosebleed doesn't stop after 20 minutes or your child has other symptoms, such as trouble breathing or blood in her stools.
