Summary about Disease
Nosebleeds, also known as epistaxis, are common occurrences involving bleeding from the nose. They can be anterior (originating from the front of the nose) or posterior (originating from deeper in the nose). Most nosebleeds are not serious and can be managed at home.
Symptoms
The primary symptom is bleeding from one or both nostrils. The amount of bleeding can vary from a slow trickle to a rapid flow. In some cases, blood may drain down the back of the throat, especially if the person is lying down.
Causes
Common causes include:
Dry air (leading to cracked nasal membranes)
Nose picking
Nasal allergies or infections
Irritants like smoke
Trauma to the nose (e.g., a blow to the face)
High blood pressure
Blood thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, warfarin)
Underlying medical conditions (rare, but possible)
Medicine Used
Most nosebleeds do not require medication. For frequent or severe nosebleeds, a doctor may prescribe:
Topical nasal decongestant sprays (used cautiously)
Silver nitrate cauterization (to seal off bleeding vessels)
Blood pressure medication (if hypertension is a contributing factor)
Emollients or saline nasal sprays/gels to moisturize nasal passages
Is Communicable
Nosebleeds are not communicable. They are not caused by an infectious agent and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
To prevent nosebleeds:
Keep nasal passages moist (use a humidifier, saline nasal spray, or petroleum jelly).
Avoid nose picking.
Treat nasal congestion promptly.
Use caution with blood-thinning medications.
Avoid smoking and other nasal irritants.
Control high blood pressure. During a nosebleed:
Stay calm.
Sit upright and lean slightly forward.
Pinch the soft part of your nose just below the bony bridge for 10-15 minutes without releasing.
Breathe through your mouth.
Apply a cold compress to the nose.
How long does an outbreak last?
An individual nosebleed episode usually lasts from a few seconds to 10-15 minutes. If bleeding continues for longer than 30 minutes despite applying pressure, seek medical attention.
How is it diagnosed?
Nosebleeds are usually diagnosed based on the individual's description of the bleeding. A doctor may perform a physical exam of the nose to identify the source of the bleeding. In some cases, blood tests or imaging studies may be necessary to rule out underlying medical conditions.
Timeline of Symptoms
Initial stage: Sudden onset of bleeding from one or both nostrils.
During the bleed: Blood may trickle or flow rapidly, possibly draining down the back of the throat.
After the bleed: Bleeding usually stops within minutes with appropriate pressure. There may be residual blood in the nasal passages for a short time. Repeated nosebleeds may cause crusting inside the nose.
Important Considerations
Seek medical attention if nosebleeds are frequent, severe, difficult to control, or associated with other symptoms (e.g., easy bruising, dizziness).
People taking blood thinners should consult with their doctor about managing their medication if they experience frequent nosebleeds.
Posterior nosebleeds are more likely to require medical intervention.
Children get nosebleeds more often than adults, often due to nose picking.