How to stop a nosebleed at home. How To Stop A Nosebleed: Effective Home Remedies And Tips
How do I stop a nosebleed. What causes nosebleeds and how to prevent them. Tips for stopping a bloody nose at home.
Understanding Nosebleeds: Common Causes and Triggers
Nosebleeds, medically known as epistaxis, are a common occurrence that can happen to anyone at any time. Several factors can trigger a nosebleed, including:
- Dry air: Dry indoor air, especially during the winter months when heating systems are in use, can irritate the delicate nasal lining and cause it to bleed.
- Nose picking and blowing: Frequent or vigorous nose picking and blowing can damage the sensitive nasal tissues and lead to nosebleeds.
- Injuries: Traumatic injuries to the nose, such as from a fall or a blow to the face, can also cause nosebleeds.
- Medications: Certain medications, particularly blood thinners, can increase the risk of nosebleeds.
- Allergies: Nasal congestion and irritation from allergies can contribute to nosebleeds.
- High altitudes: The low air pressure at high altitudes can sometimes trigger nosebleeds.
Effective Home Remedies for Stopping a Nosebleed
When a nosebleed occurs, it’s important to remain calm and take the following steps to stop the bleeding:
- Sit upright: Avoid lying down, as this can cause the blood to flow down the back of your throat, which can be a choking hazard.
- Pinch the nose: Use your thumb and index finger to firmly pinch the soft part of your nose for 5-10 minutes. This applies pressure to the bleeding point and can help stop the flow of blood.
- Use a decongestant spray: Spraying a decongestant like Afrin into the nostril can help constrict blood vessels and stop the bleeding.
- Avoid picking or blowing the nose: Doing so can disrupt any clots that have formed and cause the bleeding to start again.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Most nosebleeds can be managed at home, but in some cases, medical intervention may be necessary. You should seek medical attention if:
- The bleeding lasts for more than 20 minutes despite your efforts to stop it
- The bleeding is heavy and you are unable to stop it
- You experience frequent or recurrent nosebleeds
- You have a history of bleeding disorders or are taking blood-thinning medications
Preventing Nosebleeds: Effective Strategies
While you can’t always prevent nosebleeds, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk:
- Moisturize the nasal lining: Use a cotton swab to gently apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment inside your nostrils several times a day.
- Use a saline nasal spray: Saline nasal sprays can help keep the inside of your nose moist and prevent dryness.
- Use a humidifier: Running a humidifier, especially during the dry winter months, can add moisture to the air and prevent nasal dryness.
- Avoid picking and blowing your nose: Gentle, minimal nose-blowing is recommended, and avoid picking your nose altogether.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can irritate the nasal lining and increase the risk of nosebleeds.
- Discuss medications with your doctor: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can increase the risk of nosebleeds. Talk to your doctor about any potential side effects.
Tips for Caring for Children with Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds are common in children, and it’s important to know how to handle them effectively. Here are some tips for caring for children with nosebleeds:
- Keep your child’s fingernails short to discourage nose picking
- Gently apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment inside their nostrils to keep the area moisturized
- Encourage your child to avoid picking or blowing their nose too hard
- If your child experiences frequent or severe nosebleeds, consult their pediatrician
When to Seek Medical Intervention for Nosebleeds
While most nosebleeds can be managed at home, there are some cases where medical intervention may be necessary. You should seek medical attention if:
- The bleeding lasts for more than 20 minutes despite your efforts to stop it
- The bleeding is heavy and you are unable to stop it
- You experience frequent or recurrent nosebleeds
- You have a history of bleeding disorders or are taking blood-thinning medications
In these cases, your doctor may need to use more advanced techniques, such as cauterization or packing, to stop the bleeding.
Conclusion
Nosebleeds can be a common and sometimes frightening experience, but they are usually harmless and can be effectively treated at home. By understanding the common causes and triggers, and following the steps outlined in this article, you can quickly and safely stop a nosebleed and prevent future occurrences. Remember to remain calm, keep your head elevated, and seek medical attention if the bleeding persists or becomes severe.
How To Stop & Prevent Nosebleeds
Why Is My Nose Bleeding?
Several things can trigger a nosebleed. The most common cause is dry air, either from having the heat on in winter or being in a hot, low-humidity climate. Other causes include:
Picking your nose
Blowing your nose too hard often
Injuries caused by a fall or getting hit in your nose
Side effects of medication, like blood thinners
Allergies
High altitudes, where the air is thin
How Do I Stop My Nosebleed?
Nosebleeds usually aren’t serious. You can treat most by yourself at home by doing the following:
- Stay calm. If you start to get nervous, it can actually make you bleed more. Try to relax.
- Sit up, don’t lie down. Keep your head above your heart.
- Lean a little bit forward. This keeps the blood from draining down the back of your throat.
- Pinch your nostrils closed. Use your thumb and index finger to hold your nostrils closed for 5 to 10 minutes while you breathe through your mouth. This puts pressure on the part of your nose that’s bleeding and can make the blood stop flowing.
Continued
Once the bleeding has stopped, do not touch or blow your nose. This may start it bleeding again. But if it does restart, gently blow your nose to get rid of any blood clots. You can also spray a decongestant such as oxymetazoline (Afrin, Mucinex, or Vicks Sinex) in both nostrils. Then pinch your nostrils shut and breathe through your mouth for 5 to 10 minutes.
Call your doctor if:
If your doctor can’t get your nosebleed to stop with pressure, they might try:
Cauterization. This procedure burns a blood vessel closed. After your doctor numbs your nose, they’ll use either a heated electronic device (an electrocautery) or a chemical called silver nitrate to close the leaky blood vessel.
Packing.Your doctor puts a latex balloon or gauze into your nostril. This puts a lot of pressure on a blood vessel until it closes.
How to Prevent Nosebleeds
You can’t always prevent nosebleeds from happening, but there are certain things you can do to help lower your chances of getting them:
- Keep the inside of your nose moist. Dryness can cause nosebleeds. Use a cotton swab to gently smear a thin layer petroleum jelly in your nostrils three times a day, including before you go to sleep. You can also use an antibiotic ointment like Bacitracin or Polysporin.
- Use a saline nasal product. Spraying it in your nostrils helps keep the inside of your nose moist.
- Use a humidifier. Your nostrils might be dry because the air in your house is dry.
- Don’t smoke.Smoking can irritate the inside of your nose and dry it out.
- Don’t pick your nose. Also, don’t blow or rub it too hard. If your child is getting nosebleeds, keep their fingernails short and discourage them from picking their nose.
- Don’t use cold and allergy medications too often. These can dry out your nose. In some cases, certain medications can cause nosebleeds or make them worse. You may need to discuss your medications with your doctor. But keep taking them unless your doctor tells you to stop.
10 Tips for Stopping a Bloody Nose
Let’s face it: There is never a convenient time to get a bloody nose.
SEE ALSO: Tips for Treating Kids After Common Injuries
They’re messy, make us stop what we’re doing and, frankly, can be a little scary. The fact that a bloody nose can happen to anyone at any time, especially during the cold, dry months of winter, does not make them any less shocking.
But know this: Nosebleeds are common. The good news is that nosebleeds are harmless for most people — and the tools you need to handle them are likely already in your home.
Typical causes of nosebleeds include dry climate, heated indoor air during winter months, steroid nasal sprays or direct injury to the nose. People who take blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) also are more likely to get a bloody nose.
No matter when or how your nose starts bleeding, these simple strategies can help:
Steps to stop a bloody nose
Keep calm. Bloody noses can be scary, but they are rarely dangerous.
Lean forward. If there is blood in your mouth, spit it out; do not swallow it.
Stay upright. Do not tilt your head back or lie flat. This may cause you to choke on blood. Blood in the stomach can make you sick to your stomach and cause vomiting.
Try a spray. Apply three sprays of decongestant nose spray, such as Afrin, into the side that is bleeding.
Skip foreign objects. Do not pack the nose with tissues or other household items like tampons. This can make the bleeding worse.
Use a pinch. Pinch the soft part of your nose shut for 10 minutes. Use a clock to keep track of time. Resist the urge to peek after a few minutes to see if your nose has stopped bleeding.
Observe and react. After 10 minutes, let go of your nose. If it is still bleeding, soak a cotton ball with the nose spray. Place the cotton ball into the bleeding nostril and pinch for 10 minutes. Again, use a clock to time it.
Check your blood pressure. High blood pressure can cause nosebleeds.
Take it easy. Once bleeding has stopped, do not blow your nose for two days.
Avoid exertion. It can take up to two full weeks to heal after a nosebleed. Do not lift anything heavy, such as groceries, or perform physical activities or household chores. Do not pick up young children and babies
Seek immediate medical help if you have:
Bleeding that does not stop in 30 minutes
Bleeding that is very heavy, pouring down the back of your throat and out the front of your nose
Bleeding accompanied by other symptoms, such as very high blood pressure, light-headedness, chest pain and/or rapid heart rate
Bleeding that occurs three to four times weekly or greater than six times per month
Preventing future bloody noses
Try these steps:
Nosebleed causes & treatments | NHS inform
Most nosebleeds can be stopped without the need for medical attention, but occasionally further treatment may be required.
What to do
To stop a nosebleed:
- sit down and firmly pinch the soft part of your nose, just above your nostrils, for at least 10-15 minutes
- lean forward and breathe through your mouth – this will drain blood into your nose instead of down the back of your throat
- place an ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables covered by a towel on the bridge of your nose
- stay upright, rather than lying down as this reduces the blood pressure in the blood vessels of your nose and will discourage further bleeding
If the bleeding eventually stops, you won’t usually need to seek medical advice. However, you should still follow the recovery advice outlined below.
When to seek medical advice
Contact your GP or call the NHS 111 service if:
- you’re taking a blood-thinning medicine (anticoagulant) such as warfarin or have a clotting disorder such as haemophilia and the bleeding doesn’t stop
- you have symptoms of anaemia such as heart palpitations, shortness of breath and a pale complexion
- a child under two years of age has a nosebleed (this is rare and there’s a chance it’s caused by something serious)
- you have nosebleeds that come and go regularly
Ask someone to drive you to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department or call 999 for an ambulance if:
- the bleeding continues for longer than 20 minutes
- the bleeding is heavy and you’ve lost a lot of blood
- you’re having difficulty breathing
- you swallow a large amount of blood that makes you vomit
- the nosebleed developed after a serious injury, such as a car crash
Find your nearest A&E department
Medical treatment
If you see your GP or go to hospital with a nosebleed, you will be assessed to determine how serious your condition is and what’s likely to have caused it. This may involve looking inside your nose, measuring your pulse and blood pressure, carrying out blood tests and asking about any other symptoms you have.
The main treatments that your GP or hospital doctor may use to stop your nose bleeding are described below.
Antibiotic ointment
Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic ointment. This should be applied by squeezing a pea-sized amount onto the front of the nasal septum (wall between the nostrils).
This can reduce the inflammation and crusting in the nose and reduce the severity and frequency of nosebleeds.
Antibiotic ointment is particularly effective in children.
Cautery
If your doctor is able to identify exactly where the bleeding is coming from, they may carry out a minor procedure to seal the bleeding blood vessel by cauterising (burning) it.
This is normally done using a stick of a chemical called silver nitrate. A local anaesthetic will be sprayed into your nose to numb it and the silver nitrate stick will be held against the bleeding point for up to 10 seconds.
Nasal packing
If cautery is ineffective or your doctor is unable to identify a specific bleeding point, they may recommend packing your nose with gauze or special nasal sponges to stop the flow of blood by applying pressure to the source of the bleeding.
Packing will usually be carried out after local anaesthetic has been sprayed into your nose. The gauze or sponges often need to be left in place for 24-48 hours before being removed by a health professional. You’ll usually need to be admitted to hospital to be monitored during this time.
Further treatment
If the treatments above don’t help, you may be referred to a hospital specialist such as an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor for further treatment.
Additional treatments that may be used in hospital include:
- electrocautery – an electric current running through a wire is used to cauterise the blood vessel where the bleeding is coming from
- blood transfusions – a procedure to replace the blood you’ve lost
- tranexamic acid – medication that can reduce bleeding by helping your blood to clot
- packing under anaesthetic – your nose is carefully packed with gauze while you are unconscious from general anaesthetic
- ligation – an operation using small instruments to tie off bleeding blood vessels in the back of your nose
Recovery
Once your nose has stopped bleeding, you should follow the advice below to reduce the risk of your nose bleeding again and to stop you picking up an infection:
- avoid blowing or picking your nose, heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, lying flat, and drinking alcohol or hot drinks for 24 hours
- don’t remove any crusts that form inside your nose – these may be unpleasant, but they’re a useful part of the healing process
- if you need to sneeze, try to sneeze with your mouth open to reduce the pressure in your nose
- avoid people with coughs and colds
If you see a GP or a hospital doctor about your nosebleed, they may give you a prescription for an antiseptic nasal cream once the bleeding stops. This should be applied to the inside of your nostrils several times a day for up to two weeks to help prevent further bleeding.
If your nose does start to bleed again, follow the first aid advice above and seek medical advice if the bleeding doesn’t stop.
Managing Nosebleeds: At Home Instructions
The following instructions will help you to know what to expect in the days following surgery. Do not hesitate to call if you have questions or concerns.
How to prevent nosebleeds:
- Nasal Saline
- Saline gel (Ayr Gel®) or (®Neil Med Naso Gel): Use up to 3 times a day in each nostril. This can be purchased over-the-counter.
- Nasal saline spray: Use 2 to 3 times a day in each nostril. These sprays can be purchased over-the-counter or made at home.
- CCF Nasal Cream: Apply this up to 3 times a day in each nostril. Apply directly to the septum (the internal divider between the nostrils) with a cotton-tip applicator (Q-tip). A prescription will be given to you for this. This product is only available at Cleveland Clinic pharmacies.
- Cool Mist humidifier: Run a cool mist humidifier in the bedroom at night.
How to avoid nosebleeds:
- Medications containing aspirin or ibuprofen: These medications affect clotting. Consult with your primary physician if you take these medications daily for your heart or prevention of stroke.
- Heavy lifting or straining: This increases blood pressure and can start bleeding.
- Nose blowing: This can dislodge healing scabs and restart bleeding.
- Sneezing: For same reason as above. Sneeze through an open mouth.
- Picking: This will remove healing scabs and damage blood vessels.
Follow these steps to stop a nosebleed:
- Stay calm and breathe through your mouth.
- Sit down and lean your body and your head slightly forward. This will keep the blood from running down your throat, which can cause nausea, vomiting, choking, and diarrhea. (Do NOT lay flat or put your head between your legs.)
- Use a basin or damp washcloth to catch the blood. Use your thumb and index finger to pinch together the soft part of your nose. Make sure to pinch together the soft part of the nose. Squeezing at or above the bony part of the nose will not put pressure where it can help stop bleeding.
- Keep pinching your nose continuously for at least 10 minutes (timed by clock) before “peeking” to see if the bleeding has stopped. Every time you stop to “peek” you have to restart the clock!! If your nose is still bleeding, continue squeezing the nose for another 15 minutes.
- You can spray an over-the-counter decongestant spray, such as oxymetazoline (Afrin®, Neo-Synephrine®) into the bleeding side of the nose and then apply pressure to the nose as described above. Afrin® is to be used for no more than 2-3 days.
- Seek medical care through a nearby emergency room or by calling 911 if you cannot stop the bleeding after more than 20 minutes of applying direct pressure.
Cleveland Clinic nasal ointment ingredients:
Ayr Nasal Saline Gel or Neil Med NasoGel
Please do not hesitate to call our office with any questions or concerns.
How To Treat Frequent Nosebleeds? At-Home & Medical Services
A nosebleed can catch you off-guard and require immediate attention at the most inconvenient times. Most nosebleeds aren’t serious, and self-care treatments can be used at home without the need for medical treatment. Do you experience frequent nosebleeds? If they are happening often, then it might be time to talk to a doctor about treatment options.
Nosebleed Risk Factors
When a nosebleed happens, it means that you are actively losing blood through the tissue lining in your nose. The nose contains many blood vessels that are close to the surface, so they are more easily injured compared to vessels that are protected by thicker skin in other areas of the body. Sometimes it affects both nostrils, but nosebleeds most often happen in just one nostril.
Everyone experiences a few nosebleeds here and there, but some people are more prone to common issues. Risk factors include:
· Age: nosebleeds are more common in older adults
· High blood pressure
· Daily aspirin use or other blood thinner medications
· Bleeding disorders
· Common cold
· Allergies
· Low humidity and dry weather
· Dependence on oxygen treatments
· Deviated septum
· Smoking
· Use of blood-thinning medication
· Alcohol abuse
· Kidney or liver disease
· Sniffing cocaine
· Frequent nose picking
· Trauma to the nose
The risk of nosebleeds can go up with certain health conditions, medications, and even based on the physical structure of the nasal passages. Also, don’t underestimate the role that dry weather can play in the development of nosebleeds. Not only does the air dry out the nasal passages, but it also causes the nose mucus to become crusty and dry – which increases the likelihood of picking.
At-Home Remedies: Treatment and Prevention
If you have a history of frequent nosebleeds, then a few lifestyle changes might help to reduce the frequency of these problems. For example, try using a humidifier at night to add moisture to the air. Also, cigarette use can increase the risk of nosebleeds, so you should quit smoking. Some people find it helpful to keep the inside of the nose moist by using a saline nasal spray or applying petroleum jelly with a cotton swab.
Follow these first-aid tips when a nosebleed occurs:
· Keep your head above the heart to slow the bleeding
· Lean forward slightly so the blood comes to the front of the nose, instead of draining down the back of the throat (which can cause stomach irritation)
· Blow your nose gently to clear clotted blood that might be present
· Pinch your nose to put pressure on the bleeding point, which can help to stop the flow of blood
· Stay calm since a nervous response can increase your heart rate and make you bleed more
When the bleeding stops, be careful to avoid anything that might make the bleeding start again, such as blowing your nose or bending over.
When to Seek Medical Attention
There are two reasons why you might consider talking to a doctor about nosebleeds: inability to stop the bleeding, or frequency of the occurrence. Immediate medical treatment might be required if you experience any of these symptoms:
· You have a nosebleed that won’t stop after 20 or 30 minutes
· A nosebleed is caused by injury or trauma, such as a car accident or hit to the face
· A greater than expected amount of blood is coming out
· Nosebleeds in children under the age of 2
It is smart to have someone drive you to the emergency room instead of driving yourself. If you are losing a lot of blood, then you might be at risk of passing out.
Smaller, frequent nosebleeds can also be a concern. With these nosebleeds, emergency treatment usually isn’t required. But it is smart to schedule a consultation with an experienced ENT to identify the underlying cause of the symptoms. The frequency of these symptoms could indicate a more serious problem, such as a blood disorder, nasal tumor, cancer, and more.
What to Expect from an ENT Exam?
What should you expect when you meet with an ENT about nosebleeds? The first step is to identify where the bleeding is happening in your nose. You will need to answer questions about your nosebleed history and how the blood flows when it occurs. Additionally, an examination of the nose will be performed.
Sometimes, cauterization is recommended to stop vessels from bleeding. Medication is used to numb the nose, and then a special electrical heating device is used to burn the vessel.
Emergency treatment for nosebleeds might include posterior nasal packings, which are left in for 2 – 3 days before professional removal.
Talk to an ENT for Personalized Recommendations
You might be able to find treatment information online, but nothing beats a face-to-face conversation with a local medical professional. An exam is essential to rule out underlying causes that might be a serious concern. Also, this exam can help you identify the most effective treatments to minimize the risk of nosebleeds in the future.
If you suffer from frequent nosebleeds, then we invite you to contact our team to schedule an appointment. We provide services to patients in the Collin County or Dallas areas. At Collin County Ear, Nose, and Throat, our experienced team is here to answer your questions and assist with an effective treatment plan. We offer two local offices in Frisco and Plano, TX: (972) 596-4005
How to stop a nosebleed: Tips and treatment
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Nosebleeds occur when delicate blood vessels in the lining of the nose break and start to bleed. In rare instances, nosebleeds occur due to injury to larger blood vessels in the back of the nose.
Although nosebleeds can be a common occurrence, there are cases when the bleeding may require a visit to a doctor. Most people can stop nosebleeds at home, however.
Read on for tips on how to stop a nosebleed. We also cover when to see a doctor.
When treating a nosebleed, remain calm and do not panic. It may feel like a lot of blood, but a nosebleed is not usually a cause for concern.
To stop a nosebleed, follow these steps:
- Sit and lean slightly forward, allowing the blood to exit the nose and drip downward. Keep the head above the heart.
- Gently blow out any mucus from the nose.
- Pinch the soft portion of the nose, just below the harder cartilage, with the thumb and index finger. Continue holding the pressure for 5 minutes. Breathe through the mouth during this time.
- Let go of the nose after 5 minutes. If the bleeding has not stopped, hold for another 5 minutes and check again. Continue this process for up to 20 minutes.
- Apply a cloth-covered cold compress to the nose to reduce inflammation and the likelihood of the bleeding starting again.
After a person’s nosebleed has subsided, they should avoid activities that could make it come back, such as picking or blowing the nose.
Children are prone to nosebleeds because they may pick their nose and damage the fragile tissue inside.
Steps that a parent or caregiver can follow when a child has a nosebleed include:
- Have the child sit and lean slightly forward, allowing the blood to exit the nose. A person can catch the blood with a dark towel so it is less visible, as some children may find the sight of blood distressing.
- Find the soft, fleshy portion of the nose just below the cartilage and pinch it closed. Some people use special nasal compression clips. The child may tolerate the clamp better than a person holding their nose. Clamps are available to purchase online.
- Use distraction techniques, such as setting a timer, reading a book aloud, watching a television show, or singing a song while holding pressure for 5 minutes. Release the pressure to see whether the nosebleed has stopped. If not, hold it for an additional 5 minutes.
A caregiver should seek medical treatment for the child if the nosebleed does not stop after 20 minutes.
If a person has chronic nosebleeds, they may require more significant treatment methods to reduce the bleeding.
Products a person can use to stop a nosebleed include:
- Nasal neo-synephrine: This nasal spray can shrink or tighten blood vessels in the nose, which may help stop a nosebleed. It is available in pharmacies and online.
- Calcium alginate: Calcium alginate is a compound in some over-the-counter treatments, such as BleedCease. People should follow the instructions on the packaging to stop the bleeding.
A person should always talk to their doctor about the safety of these approaches before trying them at home.
If a person cannot stop their nosebleed with at-home treatments, a variety of medical approaches can help. These include:
- Cauterization: A doctor can use a special device that applies heat to the bleeding vessels in the nose. The heat seals the vessels and stops the bleeding.
- Packing: Packing involves special gauze or a balloon-like device that puts pressure on the nose lining, thus stopping the bleeding.
- Silver nitrate: A chemical called silver nitrate can help seal the blood vessels and stop nasal bleeding.
- Intravenous medications: Sometimes, a doctor may give medications to reduce the chance that a person will bleed excessively. Examples include aminocaproic acid (Amicar) and tranexamic acid (Cyklokapron). Doctors tend to prescribe these to people with bleeding disorders.
- Topical hemostatic products: A doctor may apply products that aim to reduce or eliminate excessive bleeding.
In rare and severe cases, a person may need a blood transfusion or a procedure to destroy or suture the blood vessels in the nose that are bleeding.
One of the most common approaches a person may take to stop a nosebleed is trying to put something up the nose.
Although stuffing the nose with tissue or gauze may seem to be a good idea, this approach may worsen the nosebleed by further irritating the nasal tissues.
Also, when they remove the object, it can dislodge the clot that has formed, and the bleeding may start again.
Some people may also try to lean their head back to avoid letting the blood drain out of their nose. However, this can allow the blood to trickle down the back of their throat, which may eventually irritate the stomach. This can cause coughing or choking, particularly in children.
The blood that has trickled down into the stomach can make a person feel nauseated, and they may vomit.
Instead, it is best to sit up straight or lean forward for a little while pinching the nose.
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the most common nosebleed causes are exposure to dry or cold air and nose picking.
Other potential nosebleed causes include:
- allergies
- chronic cold or sinus problems
- cocaine use
- hemophilia or hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia
- injuries to the nose
- putting objects up the nose
- taking medications to thin the blood, such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), or clopidogrel (Plavix)
In some instances, a nosebleed can be a symptom of high blood pressure.
Since high blood pressure does not always cause other symptoms, it is important to check blood pressure regularly and see a doctor if a nosebleed continues for a long time.
If a nosebleed does not stop after about 20 minutes of home care, a person should seek medical attention. A nosebleed that continues for this long will likely not stop without medical treatment.
Other signs a person should seek medical treatment include:
- having a broken or suspected broken nose
- a nosebleed that occurs after a vehicle accident or fall
- looking pale, sweating, or feeling weak due to the blood loss
- bleeding from the mouth
About 10% of nosebleeds require medical intervention. Children and older adults are more likely to need to see a doctor.
If a person starts having frequent nosebleeds, it is best to see a doctor. Chronic nosebleeds can sometimes signal the presence of an underlying medical condition.
Nosebleeds can be concerning, but people can usually treat them at home. If a nosebleed does not stop after 20 minutes of home care, see a doctor.
People should also speak to a doctor if they experience several nosebleeds in a month, as this may be a sign of an underlying issue.
Causes, treatment, and home remedies
The medical term for a nosebleed is epistaxis. Because of the position of the nose – right in the middle of the face – and its high density of blood vessels, most of us will have had at least one nosebleed at some time during our lives.
Although seldom a cause for alarm, nosebleeds can be life-threatening in rare cases.
Nosebleeds are most often caused by local trauma but can also be caused by foreign bodies, nasal or sinus infections, and prolonged inhalation of dry air.
Tumors and vascular malformations are also potential causes of nosebleeds, but they are rare.
Spontaneous nosebleeds are fairly common, especially in children. When the mucous membrane (a mucus-secreting tissue inside the nose) dries, crusts, or cracks and is then disturbed by nose-picking, it is likely to bleed.
Because the nose is full of blood vessels, any minor injury to the face can cause the nose to bleed profusely.
Nosebleeds are also common in people taking anticoagulants (blood-thinning medications, such as Aspirin), as well as in older people whose blood may take longer to clot. If the person taking anticoagulants, has hypertension (high blood pressure), or a blood-clotting disorder, the bleeding may be harder to stop and could last over 20 minutes.
Fast facts on nosebleeds
Here are some key points about nosebleeds. More detail and supporting information is in the main article.
- nosebleeds are rarely a cause for concern
- most people experience at least one nosebleed during their life
- they are categorized as either anterior or posterior nosebleeds
- climate and altitude can cause nosebleeds to occur
- certain drugs can make nosebleeds last longer
Nosebleeds can be classed as anterior or posterior.
In anterior nosebleeds, the bleeding comes from the wall between the two nostrils. This part of the nose contains many delicate blood vessels. Anterior nosebleeds are easily treated at home; this is likely to be the type of nosebleed seen in a child.
In posterior nosebleeds, the bleeding originates further back and higher up the nose in an area where artery branches supply blood to the nose; this is why the bleeding is heavier. Posterior nosebleeds are often more serious than anterior nosebleeds and may require medical attention. They are more common in adults.
Causes of anterior nosebleeds
Sometimes, the cause of anterior nosebleeds is unknown. However, common causes include:
- Picking the inside of the nose, especially if this is done often, if the fingernails are long, and if the inside of the nose is already irritated or tender.
- A knock or blow to the nose could damage the delicate blood vessels of the mucous membrane.
- Sinusitis – an inflammation of the sinuses (air-filled cavities of the bone and skull surrounding the nose).
- A cold, flu or a nasal allergy can cause a nosebleed for various reasons: People with these conditions blow their nose more often. Also, the inside of the nose may be irritated and tender during a viral infection, making it more susceptible to bleeding.
- Deviated septum – when the wall separating the two nostrils is off center, or deviated.
- Hot climates with low humidity or changes from bitter cold to warm, dry climates can cause drying and cracking inside the nose, which can lead to a nosebleed.
- High altitude – as altitude increases, the availability of oxygen decreases, making the air thinner and drier. The dryness can cause the nose to bleed.
- Excessive use of certain kinds of medications, such as blood thinners or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen.
- Liver disease can interfere with blood clotting and result in frequent and/or severe nosebleeds.
- Excessive use of illegal drugs, such as cocaine.
Posterior nosebleed causes
- high blood pressure
- nasal surgery
- calcium deficiency
- exposure to chemicals that may irritate the mucous membrane
- blood diseases, such as hemophilia or leukemia
- some tumors
Other causes of nosebleed
Share on PinterestOther causes of nosebleeds include a foreign body – such as a small toy – getting stuck in the nostril.
Broken nose – a crack or break in the bone or cartilage of the nose.
Foreign body in the nose – this happens more commonly in children e.g. Lego.
Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) – individuals are more prone to bleeding.
Osler-Weber-Rendu disease – a rare condition, affecting 1 in 5,000 people; it is a genetic disorder of the blood vessels that leads to excessive bleeding.
Factor X deficiency (Stuart-Prower factor deficiency) – a condition caused by a protein deficiency.
Aortic coarctation – a congenital narrowing of the aorta.
Glomerulonephritis (nephritis) – acute kidney inflammation, commonly caused by an immune reaction.
Ebola – one of Ebola’s late-stage symptoms is a bleeding rash all over the body.
Von Willebrand disease – a bleeding disorder due to a deficiency of von Willebrand factor.
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura – a condition in which the blood does not clot correctly. Individuals experience excessive bleeding and bruising.
Deficiency of factor II, V, or VII – these rare conditions affect blood clotting and increase the chances of nosebleed.
Rheumatic fever – a complication of Strep throat.
Liver cirrhosis – following long-term exposure to toxins.
Celiac disease – an allergy to gluten.
Leishmaniasis – a parasitic disease transmitted by the sand fly.
The main symptom of a nosebleed is blood coming from the nose, which can range from light to heavy. The blood comes out of either nostril (usually, only one nostril is affected).
If the nosebleed occurs while lying down, it is common to feel liquid in the back of the throat before the blood comes from the nose. It is best not to swallow the blood as it could cause feelings of nausea and vomiting. Severe nosebleeds require immediate medical attention. Things to watch for include:
- heavy bleeding
- palpitations (an irregular heartbeat)
- swallowing large amounts of blood that causes vomiting
- shortness of breath
- turning pale
The first step is to stop the bleeding:
- Sit down and pinch the soft parts of the nose firmly, breathe through the mouth.
- Lean forward (not backward) to prevent blood from draining into the sinuses and throat, which can result in inhaling the blood or gagging.
- Sit upright so that the head is higher than the heart; this reduces blood pressure and slows further bleeding.
- Continue putting pressure on the nose, leaning forward, and sitting upright for a minimum of 5 minutes and up to 20 minutes, so that the blood clots. If bleeding persists for more than 20 minutes, medical attention is required.
- Apply an ice pack to the nose and cheek to soothe the area and avoid strenuous activity for the next few days.
Individuals are recommended to seek medical attention if they suffer from frequent nosebleeds (it could be an indication of an underlying problem), had an injury to the head, or take anticoagulants (blood thinning medications) and the bleeding does not stop.
If a doctor suspects there is an underlying cause, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), anemia, or a nasal fracture, they may run further tests, such as checking blood pressure and pulse rate; they might also order an X-ray before recommending a suitable treatment option.
There is an array of treatment options physicians have to offer; these include:
Nasal packing – stuffing ribbon gauze or special nasal sponges as far back into your nose as possible, putting pressure on the source of the bleed.
Cautery – a minor procedure that cauterizes (burns) the area where the bleeding is coming from to seal it off; this is used if the specific blood vessel can be identified. However, the area around the cautery sometimes begins to bleed.
Septal surgery – a surgical procedure to straighten a crooked septum (the wall between the two nose channels), whether it was like that from birth or from an injury. This can reduce the occurrence of nosebleeds.
Ligation – a “last resort” surgical procedure that involves tying the ends of the identified blood vessels causing the bleeding. Sometimes even the artery from which the blood vessels stem is tied off. If the source of the bleed is further back, more major surgery may be required.
- Avoid picking the nose.
- Apply lubricating ointment, such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline), inside the nose; especially in children whose nosebleeds are most commonly attributed to crusting inside the nostrils.
- Avoid blowing the nose too hard, or too frequently.
- Use a humidifier at high altitudes or in dry climates.
- To prevent recurring nosebleeds, avoid exertion or strenuous activity for a minimum of 1 week after the previous nosebleed.
90,000 First aid for nosebleeds
According to statistics, every 50th inhabitant of the planet faces the problem of nosebleeds. In most cases, this is due to the peculiarities of the anatomical structure of the nose. This organ is permeated with a network of the finest capillaries, which can be damaged even with minor changes in the environment or during physical exertion.
We will talk about the causes and prevention later, but first about how to provide first aid for nosebleeds.
- First of all, it is necessary to eliminate the causes of increased bleeding, you should not talk, cough, make any movements and be nervous.
- You need to sit down, unfasten the collar, loosen the belt, tilt your head forward. You cannot throw your head back or go to bed, in which case blood will enter the throat, causing coughing and vomiting.
- Something cold should be put on the bridge of the nose (a moistened towel or bandage), but an ice pack is better.
- It is advisable to provide fresh air in the room by opening the windows. On the street – move into the shade. If bleeding occurs in the heat, then additional cold compresses can be applied to the head and chest.
- If the blood from the nose continues to flow, then both wings of the nose should be strongly pressed against the nasal septum. Breathing should be deep through the mouth. The procedure continues for 5-10 minutes. Do not be afraid of getting blood in your mouth, you just need to spit it out.
Tamponade of the nasal passages can also be performed. To do this, cotton balls are moistened with a solution of hydrogen peroxide and injected into the nostrils. In this case, the blood coagulates rather quickly and the nosebleeds stop. Just do not insert dry cotton swabs into your nose, this can cause the cotton to dry to the walls of the nose and reopen the bleeding.
In most cases, bleeding lasts no more than 10 minutes. If the blood cannot be stopped even after 20 minutes, or if the blood flows very intensively from both nostrils at once, then it is necessary to call an ambulance or deliver the patient to the nearest medical facility.
After first aid, if you managed to stop the bleeding, you can additionally:
- Drink something cool, but you should strictly abstain from coffee and tea, they promote vasodilation and can cause re-bleeding. You should also avoid eating.
- Measure pressure, especially if headache and tinnitus occur along with bleeding. If the pressure is high, it is imperative to normalize it.
In our life, nothing happens just like that.If nosebleeds are systematic, then the body has a reason for this. It can accompany blood diseases, heart defects, infectious and viral diseases, aneurysms, hypertension, benign (angiomas, polyps, papillomas) and malignant (sarcoma and cancer) neoplasms. See a therapist and get tested.
In addition, nosebleeds do not necessarily signal serious problems. Up to 70% of cases are associated with mechanical damage to the epithelium, due to bruises, strong blowing of the nose, too dry indoor air in winter.In childhood, the habit of picking your nose with your finger or sticking toys into the nasal passages can cause bleeding.
Many people have thin and brittle capillaries, curvature of the nasal septum, which can also cause frequent nosebleeds. In these cases, additional intake of vitamin C and a visit to the otolaryngologist will not hurt.
Tranexamic acid for the treatment of nosebleeds (epistaxis)
Relevance
Bleeding from the nose is a very common condition, more common in children or people over 60 years of age.This bleeding usually stops on its own or by simply squeezing the nose with the fingers, although some bleeding requires medical attention. This will involve either cauterizing (sealing) the bleeding vessel, if it can be seen, or filling the interior of the nose with material in order to create increased pressure and stop the bleeding (“routine care”). In some cases, bleeding continues despite the measures taken, or it resumes after stopping.This can lead to long hospital stays and the possibility of further procedures such as refilling the nose with other types of materials or surgery.
Tranexamic acid is a medicine known to stimulate blood clotting by preventing a natural process called fibrinolysis (dissolution of a blood clot). It has already been used in a number of situations where bleeding is a serious concern, such as after heart surgery or major trauma.Tranexamic acid can be administered orally, directly to the site of bleeding (topically), or by injection into a vein (intravenously).
Characteristics of research
We looked for randomized controlled trials in patients of all ages with nosebleeds requiring intervention. Patients were treated with tranexamic acid (in addition to usual care) versus placebo, no treatment, or any other agent used to stop bleeding.We found six studies that met our inclusion criteria, with a total of 692 participants. Two studies used oral administration of tranexamic acid, and four – topical administration. All study participants were adults. Three of the six studies were conducted over 20 years ago.
Key Outcomes
Three studies evaluated the development of rebleeding within 10 days. When we pooled the results, we found that fewer patients who received oral or topical tranexamic acid had rebleeding episodes after an initial nosebleed compared to those who received conventional care.
Time to stop initial bleeding (control of bleeding within 30 minutes) was measured in four studies. In three studies, the proportion of patients whose bleeding had stopped within 10 minutes was significantly higher in the group receiving topical tranexamic acid compared to the group receiving another drug (topical epinephrine and lidocaine or phenylephrine). In another study, there was no significant difference after 30 minutes when tranexamic acid (topical application) was compared to placebo.
None of the studies reported on the proportion of patients requiring any follow-up intervention (eg, re-tamponade, surgery).
Only one study with oral tranexamic acid reported the proportion of patients requiring a blood transfusion, and there was no evidence of differences between groups.
Length of hospital stay was reported in two studies. One study reported shorter hospital stays in the tranexamic acid oral group, while another study found no evidence of difference.
Five studies reported “adverse effects”. There was no difference between groups in the occurrence of minor adverse effects (eg, mild nausea and diarrhea, “bad taste” of the gel). In one study, a patient developed superficial vein thrombophlebitis (inflammation and blood clots in veins near the surface of the skin) in both legs after discharge, but the study did not report in which treatment group this happened. None of the studies reported serious adverse events.
Quality of evidence and conclusions
Overall, the risk of bias in the six studies was low. We rated the quality of the evidence for the main outcomes (epistaxis control: rebleeding within 10 days) as moderate, which means that further research is likely to have a significant impact on our confidence in the effect estimate and is likely to change this estimate. In light of this, and given the fact that “routine care” has changed with the development of more modern nasal cauterization and tamponade techniques since three of the included studies were conducted, uncertainty remains about the role of tranexamic acid in the management of patients with nosebleeds.Newer research into the effects of tranexamic acid as a treatment for nosebleeds would inform future treatment decisions for this condition.
The evidence in this review is current to October 2018.
How to stop bleeding at home: 8 effective ways
Injuries that cause bleeding are very common, but even minor bleeding caused by cuts and scrapes must be stopped. Often these injuries can be treated at home, but it is important that the person knows how to do it safely.Anyone treating a wound should wash their hands and wear latex gloves.
- Apply pressure. Firm and constant pressure on the wound is the best way to stop bleeding. Place a clean, dry piece of material, such as a bandage, towel, or cloth, over the wound and press down on it with both hands. Maintain a sufficiently strong and continuous pressure until the bleeding stops.
- Raise the affected limb. Reducing blood flow will also help stop bleeding, so elevate the affected area if possible.So, if a hand injury has occurred, it should be raised above the head, if the lower limb is injured, lie down and raise the affected area above the level of the heart.
- Ice. Applying ice to the wound constricts the blood vessels, allowing the blood clot to form faster and stop bleeding. The best way to do this is to wrap the ice in a clean, dry cloth and place it over the wound.
- Tea. Tea is a popular treatment for bleeding after dental procedures.The fact is that the tannins contained in tea exhibit hemostatic activity, as well as an astringent effect, which makes the blood thicken. Tea is also a kind of antiseptic that kills bacteria and helps prevent wound infections.
- Vaseline. Many cosmetics, including lip balms, contain petroleum jelly. It contains a mixture of oils and waxes that can be used to protect the skin. Petroleum jelly is best used to stop bleeding from small incisions.Clean the wound and rub the area around with a dry cloth to remove any remaining petroleum jelly once the bleeding has stopped.
- Witch hazel (witch hazel). Products for external use based on this herb are designed to stop bleeding.
- Antiperspirant. Aluminum chloride in antiperspirant may help constrict blood vessels, which can help stop bleeding. In a 2015 study, aluminum chloride was shown to be a quick and effective way to control minor external bleeding.
- Mouthwash. The alcohol in the mouthwash acts as an astringent and can be used for oral wounds to rapidly clot blood. In addition, aminocaproic acid can also help treat bleeding in the mouth caused by a dental procedure.
It should be noted that even if the bleeding has stopped, it is important that the wound remains clean to prevent infection.Rinse the wound with cool water and use soap to wash the surrounding tissue. Avoid getting soap in the wound. If possible, remove any debris inside the wound with tweezers. Wipe the tweezers with alcohol before use. Once the bleeding has stopped, small wounds should be covered with a bandage to prevent infection.
There are several types of bleeding that can be considered life-threatening and require medical attention, including: if blood quickly escapes from the wound, does not stop flowing, soaks clothing and bandages, etc.If the bleeding person is unconscious or disoriented, then you should also see a doctor or call an ambulance.
Even if the bleeding has stopped, you should see a doctor if: stitches may be required, you cannot remove dirt from the wound, there is internal bleeding or bruising, there are signs of wound infection, the injury was caused by an animal or human bite, in the last 5 years the person has not done tetanus shot, uncontrolled bleeding occurs.
Based on materials from www.medicalnewstoday.com
What to do when nosebleeds
How to stop mild bleeding
Mild nosebleeds can start spontaneously or after a mild nose injury. As a rule, they do not pose any danger.
To stop light bleeding, do the following:
- Sit and keep your head straight. You don’t need to throw it back.Blood should not drain down the throat.
- Firmly pinch the soft part of the nose with your fingers and do not let go for 10-15 minutes. For the first 10 minutes, be patient and don’t check to see if the bleeding has stopped.
- If after 10-15 minutes the blood does not stop, continue pinching your nose for another 15 minutes.
To stop the bleeding more quickly, a vasoconstrictor cold remedy, such as xylometazoline solution, can be used.
If bleeding does not stop within 30 minutes, see a doctor.
Signs of dangerous nosebleeds
Relatively rare nosebleeds begin due to damage to the large blood vessels in the back of the nose. It can be dangerous because of the risk of large blood loss.
Call an ambulance if:
- Large amounts of blood drain into the mouth or throat.
- Blood clots form.
- Bleeding began several days after surgery in the nasal cavity or throat, for example after removal of nasal polyps or adenoids.
- Bleeding started after a strong blow.
A doctor can stop the blood by using a nasal tamponade. This is a procedure during which gauze tampons soaked in vasoconstrictor drugs are inserted into the nasal cavity.
Causes of frequent but minor nosebleeds
Frequent nosebleeds can be associated with many different causes. Usually the problem can be solved with relatively simple steps. Less often you have to see a doctor.
The main causes of frequent nosebleeds and tips for solving the problem will be listed below.
Colds and prolonged runny nose
If frequent nosebleeds occur during a cold or prolonged runny nose:
- Try to blow your nose more carefully.
- Open your mouth when you sneeze.
- Do not pick your nose.
- If the nose is stuffy, drip normal saline or a mild salt solution into the nose before blowing your nose.
Dry air
Another reason for the frequent appearance of nosebleeds may be too dry indoor air.
This problem can be solved with a humidifier. An even simpler solution is to place an open container of water next to a heat source.
Nasal Sprays
If a person regularly uses nasal sprays, for example to treat allergies, incorrect handling may be the cause of bleeding.
In the area of the nasal septum, there are many fragile vessels. To avoid damaging them, the nose of the bottle must be directed towards the wing of the nose. For example, when injecting medicine into the left nostril, hold the bottle with your right hand and point it to the left, away from the septum.
Increased fragility of small vessels
In some people, frequent nosebleeds are caused by increased fragility of small vessels in the front of the nasal septum.
Blood vessel fragility may be congenital or may occur in old age.
To solve this problem, you need to see a doctor. He may suggest cauterization of the mucous membrane with silver nitrate or a special surgical instrument. This procedure is called cauterization .
Other causes of frequent nosebleeds
More rare causes of frequent nosebleeds can be:
- Congenital bleeding disorders.
- Chronic liver diseases.
- Alcohol abuse.
- Medicines that reduce blood clotting.
- Curvature or perforation of the nasal septum.
- Tumors in the nasal cavity.
- Oncological diseases of the blood.
In all these situations, treatment tactics depend on the disease.
If you develop any other symptoms at the same time as frequent bleeding, you should consult a doctor.
Read also
Epistaxis (bleeding from the nose): causes and treatment
From overdried mucous membranes due to insufficient air humidity to cancer, from taking aspirin to liver diseases… Why is there a nosebleed? It will take a long time to just list the reasons.
Start panicking when it occurs, or treat it as a minor incident? And finally, what if it happened?
With questions about the problem of nosebleeds, we came to an appointment with our permanent expert, otolaryngologist LLC “Clinic Expert Kursk” Emelyanova Alexandra Nikolaevna.
– Alexandra Nikolaevna, how common is the problem of nosebleeds in your patients?
Doctors encounter this pathology quite often.According to the open information of domestic and foreign researchers, epistaxis occurred at least once in the life of 60% of people. 6% of them went to doctors, about 1.6 out of 10,000 required inpatient treatment. According to other sources, about 5-10% of people have an annual episode of nosebleeds. At the same time, less than 10% of them go to the doctor, and only 1% of these 10 require hospitalization.
– Is nosebleeds somehow reflected in the ICD-10?
Yes, its code is R04.0
– What are the reasons for nosebleeds? When can a nosebleed run at night?
Most often it is not an independent disease, but a manifestation of some other pathology or influence.
What causes nosebleeds? The reasons can be divided into two groups: local and general (systemic).
The first includes trauma to the nasal mucosa (including finger), foreign bodies, operations, infectious diseases of the airways, allergic processes, nasal polyps, low air humidity, neoplasms (in particular, juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma, nasal hemangioma, papilloma, esthesioneuroblastoma), inhalation of irritants (including cocaine).
The second group includes an increase in blood pressure, disorders of blood coagulation processes (including those associated with liver diseases, chemotherapy and anticoagulant therapy), acquired disorders of platelet function (for example, after using acetylsalicylic acid and other similar drugs), uremia, pathology vessels, hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, pathological changes in collagen, vasculitis, systemic infections (for example, typhoid fever, nasal diphtheria, congenital syphilis, tuberculosis and others).
Thus, nosebleeds can be a sign of serious pathological conditions and therefore requires mandatory clarification of the cause that caused it.
There are no special reasons for the nominal nocturnal nosebleeds.
– Are the causes of nosebleeds the same in children, adolescents and adults? Or are they different?
In principle, they are the same. However, there are some characteristics – for example, juvenile angiofibroma or bleeding associated with changes in hormonal status during adolescence.In addition, compared with adults, in childhood, bleeding occurs more often against the background of trauma to the nasal mucosa (for example, finger), infectious pathologies, leukemia (leukemia).
– Alexandra Nikolaevna, do you need to see a doctor for every nosebleed?
If it is insignificant, arose once, and it was successfully stopped at home, then there is no reason for an immediate visit to a doctor in order to stop bleeding.
But even here, clarification of the cause of bleeding is necessary, not to mention all their other cases (insignificant in volume, but often repeated, or simultaneous profuse bleeding). Why? Because without this, one cannot be completely sure how dangerous the cause that caused it is. Therefore, in any case, a person cannot do without a trip to the doctor.
– What research methods are used to clarify the cause of nosebleeds?
These are various laboratory and instrumental methods.
Laboratory methods are aimed, in particular, at the search for disorders of the blood coagulation system (study of its plasma, platelet link).
Instrumental examinations include examination of the nasal cavity (rhinoscopy), including with the help of endoscopic techniques, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography of the nasal cavity and nasopharynx.
Of course, a rational algorithm for diagnostic search and necessary research should be selected by the doctor depending on the specific clinical situation.
– How can nosebleeds be stopped at home?
First aid for nosebleeds consists in pinching the nose (pressing the wings of the nose against the nasal septum) for 5-20 minutes. If there are nasal vasoconstrictor drops, then you can first put a little cotton wool or, preferably, gauze dipped in 3-4 drops of this drug into the nasal cavity, and then pinch the nose.
It must be remembered that vasoconstrictor drops can increase blood pressure (therefore, be sure to see the instructions for specific drops), and therefore may be contraindicated in hypertension.Therefore, with nosebleeds and at the same time high blood pressure, these drops should not be used.
– What should not be done with nosebleeds?
When there is a nosebleed, you must not throw your head back. This is one of the most common mistakes. Why shouldn’t this be done? This can lead to the ingress of blood into the esophagus and further into the stomach, causing bloody vomiting, or into the respiratory tract, with the subsequent development of suffocation. For the same reason, you cannot go to bed.
During the onset of bleeding and for some time after, hot drinks and food should not be consumed.
It is necessary to exclude the influence of the factor, presumably causing the nosebleeds: for example, go into the shade, if it happened in the sun, stop working, especially if it was a physical activity.
– How to properly prevent nosebleeds?
Proper hygiene in the home and workplace must be ensured.First of all, it is cleanliness and normal air humidity. If there are occupational hazards in the form of polluted air, use personal protective equipment. Be sure to undergo scheduled medical examinations and preventive examinations. If an episode of bleeding occurs, you should see an ENT doctor to find out the cause of the bleeding and adhere to his recommendations.
For information:
Emelyanova Alexandra Nikolaevna
Candidate of Medical Sciences, otolaryngologist, Clinic Expert Kursk LLC.
Graduated from Kursk State Medical University. Passed primary specialization in residency in the specialty “otorhinolaryngology”. In the same educational institution she completed full-time postgraduate studies.
Other interviews with Emelyanova A.N .:
How to treat sinusitis at home?
Why can’t the ear hear?
The nose is stuffy, but there are no drops at hand?
90,000 Frequent nosebleeds: what are the causes and what to do?
Bleeding from the nose due to trauma usually does not raise questions, but if it occurs without any mechanical effect, and even often, it should alert
What can be the causes of frequent nosebleeds and how they can be cured – says Olga Pavlovna Soloshenko, an otorhinolaryngologist at the Semeynaya clinic.
If bleeding does not occur from injuries and recurs periodically, it is better not to delay the visit to the ENT. After all, bleeding can be front and back – the second happens less often, but it is much more dangerous. With anterior bleeding, blood only goes out, with posterior bleeding, it flows into the mouth or stomach along the back of the pharynx. The posterior is usually caused by damage to the larger vessels that are located deep in the nasal cavity. It is very difficult to stop posterior bleeding without a doctor.
Causes of nosebleeds:
- Injuries. Injury to the nose is often fraught with cartilage fractures. As a rule, this is accompanied by swelling and painful sensations.
- Increased pressure. A very common reason. Due to the sharp jump, the walls of the capillaries burst easily. The pressure rises due to overload, as well as in the presence of diseases of the cardiovascular system.
- Sunstroke and any sudden increase in body temperature.
- Overwork.
- Change in hormonal levels. Bleeding can occur in women during the months of pregnancy or during menopause, and in adolescents during puberty.
- Dry air. It causes dryness of the mucous membrane.
- Poor blood clotting.
- ENT diseases. Sinusitis, sinusitis, rhinitis – all of them can cause bleeding, especially with the constant use of drugs that thin the mucous membrane.
- Problems with vessels. Even infectious diseases such as chickenpox, measles, flu, etc. can lead to them.
- Polyps, adenoids, tumors. In addition to occasional bleeding, they simply make breathing difficult.
- Ingress of a foreign body – can damage the mucous membrane and blood vessels.
- Deficiency of vitamins K, C and calcium.
First aid rules for nosebleeds:
- Sit down (or position the patient) with legs down
- Tilt head forward
- Place a cold compress on the bridge of the nose for a few minutes
- Cover your nose with your hand or insert a tampon previously moistened with hydrogen peroxide
- It is possible to drop drops for vasoconstriction
Attention, this must not be done!
- Throwing your head back (contrary to popular belief) – blood can enter the respiratory tract
- Blow your nose – so as not to increase the bleeding.
Which cases require an immediate call to a doctor and an ambulance
- Upon loss of consciousness
- With too much bleeding
- Blood flows with a clear liquid (this can happen after an injury and indicate a fracture of the base of the skull)
- When vomiting with blood occurs (possibly, this indicates bleeding in the esophagus or stomach)
- Blood with foam (possible in case of lung injury)
- In case of diabetes mellitus in a patient
- If it is known that the patient has poor blood clotting
Treatment
Treatment of bleeding is carried out in a comprehensive manner.Often, an otorhinolaryngologist works in conjunction with a therapist, neurologist, endocrinologist and hematologist.
At the first examination, the doctor determines the type of bleeding – anterior or posterior. Also, the patient needs to undergo a general blood test and a coagulogram (analysis of blood clotting indicators). In addition, it is important to measure blood pressure, since if it is above normal (the absolute norm is 120/80 mm Hg, but these indicators change depending on age), the blood will not stop until it drops.
Patients with significant blood loss may be hospitalized.
As a treatment for bleeding, it is possible to tampon the nasal cavity, cauterize blood vessels (with drugs, laser, ultrasound, etc.), remove polyps. If there is no result, surgical ligation of blood vessels in problem areas is performed. In addition, drugs are prescribed that increase blood clotting.
Prevention
- Taking drugs that strengthen the walls of blood vessels
- Nutrition rich in vitamins and minerals
- Air humidification during the heating season
- Prevention of possible injuries
- Monitoring blood pressure and taking medications to lower it
Nose bleeding is not only unpleasant, but also dangerous.Therefore, as soon as it begins to bother you on a regular basis, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. It is better to exclude all the most terrible causes of such a phenomenon as soon as possible and then it is already calmer to engage in further treatment.
Appointment to a doctor otolaryngologist
Be sure to consult a qualified specialist in the field of nasal diseases at the Semeynaya clinic.
To check prices for a pediatrician’s appointment or other questions, follow the link below
Bleeding from the nose: causes, first aid and folk remedies
Blood can be stopped by yourself if you know simple ways.
Why does blood flow
The reason may be unexpected – bruise or trauma to the nose . Sometimes weather conditions, strong pressure drops in the atmosphere are to blame.
Prolonged exposure to hot rays leads to the fact that a large volume of blood flows into the upper body, to the head. Intracranial pressure rises and some of the fluid is discharged through the nose.
Nosebleeds can occur due to prolonged, irritating effect on mucous membranes of strong smells of chemicals.
Blood from the nose may appear due to illness: flu, high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, kidney disease, cardiovascular problems. Long-term use of sprays, narrowing the vessels of the mucous membrane , causes it to dry out, which can also provoke bleeding.
In winter, when the body is deficient in vitamin C , nasal hemorrhages appear especially often. Lack of vitamin affects the strength of the walls of blood vessels. They become thin, brittle, which leads to damage.
Whatever bleeding starts, you need to react quickly.
Photo: pixabay.com
Help with bleeding
Excessive bleeding can lead to large blood loss, dizziness and even fainting. If you feel comfortable, you can sit down with leaning forward slightly.
Do not throw your head back sharply, as this can cause vomiting. If the victim is unable to sit, lay him down so that his upper body is slightly raised.In the nostrils, it is advisable to insert loose cotton turundas or bandage moistened with 3% hydrogen peroxide.
It is good to put something cold on your nose – ice or a napkin dipped in water. If the bleeding cannot be quickly stopped, ice should be applied to the back of the head. The cold is left for 10-15 minutes.
In a situation where it is impossible to do any of the above, you can try to pinch one or both nostrils with your fingers for a few minutes.This may be enough to stop the slight bleeding.
During the flow of blood and after it stops in no case should you blow your nose . Try to avoid abrupt body movements. Better yet, lie down for at least half an hour in a calm, quiet environment.
You can try to stop the blood on your own for 15-20 minutes. If during this time a positive result is not achieved, call an ambulance.
Photo: pixabay.com
Folk remedies
Effectively stops nosebleeds meadow geranium, it is also forest .This is not the geranium that grows on the windows, but its wild relative. Drink infusion of herbs in half a glass before meals 3 or 4 times a day. They also moisten cotton swabs and put them in the nose in case of bleeding.
For a daily portion, take two glasses of boiled water and 2-3 teaspoons of dry herbs. Insist for at least 8 hours. With regular nosebleeds, you need to introduce tea from the herb yarrow into the diet. Three tablespoons are poured with a liter of boiling water, insisted for 2 hours.This serving of tea with the addition of honey is drunk little by little throughout the day.
If this amount of liquid is not comfortable to take, you can prepare a more concentrated solution from a tablespoon of herbs in a glass of boiling water. You need to insist on it for an hour. The portion is divided into several receptions.
Photo: pixabay.com
Juice from the roots of comfrey medicinal is instilled into one or both nostrils during bleeding. The juice of fresh plants – nettle, shepherd’s purse, plantain, yarrow – has a good effect.
From the dry powder of these herbs, you can prepare ointments on the basis of petroleum jelly, pork interior fat or cocoa butter in a ratio of one part of the herb and four parts of a fatty base. The mucous membranes are lubricated several times a day if a person is prone to frequent nosebleeds.
Stress and bleeding
A tense life rhythm, chronic fatigue, lack of vitamins can become the cause of bleeding. Therefore, it is imperative to arrange for yourself days of rest.And of course, eat well.
Strength of blood vessels is provided by vitamin C, or ascorbic acid. Its main suppliers are vegetables, fruits, especially fresh.
Photo: pixabay.com
Heating, preservation with sugar or salt lead to significant losses of the vitamin.