A bloody nose, also referred to as epistaxis or a nosebleed, is common in children and adults. Possible causes for nosebleeds include dry, cold air or injury to the nose. The most common cause is from picking the nose, according to the Merck Manual of Medical Information. Medications that thin the blood may also cause an increase in nosebleeds. Treatment for a bleeding nose includes pinching the nose together and tilting the head forward.
Bleeding
Blood coming from the nostrils is the most obvious symptom of a nosebleed. Bright red blood may trickle out of the nostril or the flow can be heavier. The bleeding may occur after picking the nose which causes irritation to the nasal lining. The lining of the nose is full of blood vessels located close to the surface, especially around the area called the septum that divides the nose into two sections. The painless bleeding flows from the area of the septum and drains out the front of the nose.
Stops After Treatment
Tilting the head forward while pinching the sides of the nose will stop the bleeding. Pressing gently just under the bony area of the nose for 10 minutes will stop the nosebleed. Applying ice to the bridge of the nose will also help slow the bleeding coming from the nostrils.
Posterior Bleeding
Individuals with high blood pressure or hardening of the arteries may experience bleeding from further up in the nose. Instead of bleeding out of the nostrils, this posterior bleeding is characterized by blood running down the back of the throat. This condition is not as common and is hard to stop, according to Merck. Medical attention is necessary for proper treatment for this type of nosebleed, especially if the bleeding does not stop.
