Nosebleeds are very common and not that serious. About 60% of people get nosebleeds at least once in their life but only 10% of these cases need medical attention. Multiple things can cause nosebleeds from dry air to high blood pressure. In this blog, we will understand what some of the common causes of nosebleeds are. How to treat nosebleeds and how to prevent nosebleeds
What is a nosebleed?
A nosebleed, medically known as epistaxis, occurs when the delicate blood vessels in the nose rupture and bleed. Common causes include dry air, nasal trauma, allergies, and high blood pressure. Most nosebleeds are harmless and stop on their own, but severe or recurrent ones may require medical attention.
Who can get a nosebleed?
Although anyone can get a nosebleed some people are more vulnerable to nosebleeds than others. Some of these groups include:
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Children between the ages of 2 to 10
Dry air, colds, allergies and sticking fingers and objects into their noses are the common reasons for bloody noses in children.
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Adults between the ages of 45 to 80
Blood can take longer to clot in older adults. This group is also more likely to have high blood pressure, atherosclerosis (hardening of the walls of arteries) or a bleeding disorder. All of these factors can cause nosebleeds in adults.
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Pregnant women
Blood vessels in pregnant women’s nose expand, which puts more pressure on the delicate blood vessels in the lining of your nose.
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People on blood thinning medications
People who are on blood thinning medications like aspirin and warfarin are more susceptible to nosebleeds.
Types of nosebleeds
Nosebleeds are generally categorized into two types: anterior and posterior (1).
1. Anterior nosebleeds
These are the most common type and occur when the blood vessels in the front part of the nose (the nasal septum) are damaged or irritated. They typically result from minor trauma, dry air, or nose picking.
2. Posterior nosebleeds
Less common but often more serious, posterior nosebleeds originate from the blood vessels deeper in the nose and are harder to manage. They can be caused by high blood pressure, nasal infections, or nasal surgery, and may require medical intervention to stop the bleeding.
What are the causes of nosebleeds?
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Dry air
Dry air can lead to nosebleeds by drying out the delicate mucous membranes lining the nasal passages. This drying weakens the blood vessels, making them more prone to rupture and bleeding. Common in arid climates or heated indoor environments, it’s a frequent cause of anterior nosebleeds (2).
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Infections
Nosebleeds can be caused by nasal infections such as sinusitis, which inflame the nasal passages and irritate the blood vessels. Infections can lead to tissue swelling and increased fragility of the blood vessels, making them more susceptible to bleeding, particularly in posterior nosebleeds (3).
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Allergies
Allergic reactions can lead to inflammation and irritation of the nasal passages, causing the blood vessels to become more fragile and prone to bleeding. This is particularly common in individuals who frequently experience nasal congestion or use nasal decongestants (4).
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Medications
Certain medications, particularly those that affect blood clotting or thinning the blood, can increase the risk of nosebleeds. Examples include anticoagulants (blood thinners) like warfarin or aspirin, as well as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. These medications can prolong bleeding time and make blood vessels more prone to rupture (5).
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Chemical Irritants
Exposure to certain chemical irritants can cause nosebleeds. Common irritants include strong acids, alkalis, ammonia, bleach, and some cleaning agents. These substances can irritate the delicate nasal tissues, leading to inflammation and potentially causing the blood vessels to rupture and bleed (6).
How to treat a nosebleed?
- Stay relaxed and sit upright, leaning slightly forward.
- Pinch the soft part of your nose (just below the bridge) with your thumb and forefinger for 10-15 minutes, applying steady pressure.
- Avoid tilting your head back, as it may cause blood to flow down your throat.
- Apply an ice pack to the bridge of your nose to constrict blood vessels.
- Once the bleeding stops, avoid blowing your nose or bending down for several hours.
- If bleeding continues after 20 minutes, seek medical attention.
Conclusion
Nosebleeds are frequent occurrences and typically not severe. The majority are anterior nosebleeds, easily manageable at home. They usually occur suddenly and resolve quickly. There are many reasons for a nosebleed, especially dry air and repeated scratching or picking of the nose. A posterior nosebleed can pose greater risks. If you suspect you’re experiencing one, it’s vital to promptly inform your doctor or visit the emergency room.
FAQs
1. What is the main cause of epistaxis?
The main cause of epistaxis (nosebleeds) is the rupture of blood vessels in the nose, often triggered by factors like dry air, nasal trauma, allergies, or high blood pressure.
2. What is the best treatment for epistaxis?
The best treatment for epistaxis involves applying pressure to the nostrils, leaning forward, and staying calm. If bleeding persists, medical attention may be necessary to address underlying causes.
3. How do you stop bleeding from epistaxis?
To stop bleeding from epistaxis, apply pressure to the nostrils by pinching them together, lean forward to prevent blood from flowing down the throat, and remain calm.
4. What not to do after a nosebleed?
After a nosebleed, avoid lying flat or tilting your head back, picking or blowing your nose vigorously, and engaging in strenuous activities that may increase blood pressure.