Nosebleeds, also known as epistaxis, are very common, especially in children. The lining inside the nose has many small blood vessels close to the surface. When they become irritated, injured or damaged, they can break open, causing a nosebleed. This is usually not a sign that something more serious is going on.
What causes nosebleeds?
There are many possible reasons for a person to get a nosebleed. Some of the more common causes of nosebleeds include:
- dry air
- seasonal allergies
- infections, such as colds
- runny nose
- trauma or injury
- smoke inhalation
- nose picking
- blowing your nose forcefully
- certain medications, such as blood thinners
- pregnancy
More serious causes of nosebleeds and underlying conditions
Nosebleeds are common and most often due to environmental factors. However, sometimes they are associated with more serious conditions or disorders which predispose a person to getting nosebleeds easily. These include bleeding disorders such as von Willebrand disease, platelet disorders, hemophilia, disorders of abnormal blood vessel formation, and some cancers.
How do you stop a nosebleed?
To stop an active nosebleed, take the following steps:
- Sit and bend forward slightly at the waist. While it might make sense to lean your head backward, do not lie down or tilt your head back, as this can cause you to swallow blood.
- Pinch the soft area of your nose below the bone with firm pressure applied to both sides of the nose (even if only one nostril was bleeding).
- Maintain firm pressure for at least 10 minutes. This may seem like a long time, so use a clock or timer. Do not release the pressure before 10 minutes is up to check, this may prolong the overall bleeding time.
- Try to stay calm. If you are a caregiver trying to stop a nosebleed in a child, try to use distraction and keep them calm while pinching their nose.
- If the bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes, try using the same technique but holding pressure for 20-30 minutes straight.
How are nosebleeds treated?
In people who get frequent or recurrent nosebleeds, sometimes medications may be appropriate to help treat them when they happen. These can include over-the-counter nasal sprays or prescription medications. Talk to your doctor to see what is right for you.
Can you prevent nosebleeds?
There are several things that can be done to prevent nosebleeds or reduce the frequency of nosebleeds. These include:
- Use of a cool mist humidifier in the home, especially nearby when sleeping. This is particularly helpful when the air is dry, such as in the winter
- Reduce allergen exposure, or treat allergies with appropriate medication if recommended by your doctor
- Keep the inside of your nose moisturized by using nasal saline sprays or gels twice daily
- Avoid picking your nose
- Avoid smoke exposure
When to seek medical attention for nosebleeds
Most of the time, nosebleeds will stop on their own or will respond well to applying pressure as described above. However, there are some situations where seeking medical care is required, including:
- Bleeding does not stop after 30 minutes of applying direct pressure to the nose
- You feel faint or lightheaded
- You have other bleeding symptoms, including bruising
- You are taking blood thinner medications
- There is trauma or injury to the face along with the nosebleed
- There is a foreign object in your nose
- You experience nosebleeds often
If you experience any of these symptoms, please seek medical attention. Healthcare providers have the tools to help stop the bleeding and can be sure there are no other complications.
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