Nosebleed (Epistaxis)
A nosebleed occurs when blood vessels inside the nose break and bleed. It’s a common issue that can be caused by various factors.
🧬 Causes:
- Dry air or low humidity (most common)
- Nose picking or trauma to the nose
- Allergies or colds causing irritation
- Infections or inflammation
- Use of blood thinners or medications like aspirin
- High blood pressure
- Structural abnormalities (e.g., deviated septum)
- Rarely, bleeding disorders or tumors
🩺 Symptoms:
- Bleeding from one or both nostrils
- Blood may drip down the nose or throat
- Usually sudden onset but often stops within minutes
🔍 Diagnosis:
- Medical history and physical exam
- Nasal examination with a light or endoscope if recurrent or severe
- Blood tests if bleeding disorder suspected
💊 Treatment:
- Sit upright and lean forward slightly to avoid swallowing blood
- Pinch nostrils firmly for 10-15 minutes
- Apply a cold compress on the nose or cheeks
- Avoid picking or blowing the nose after bleeding stops
- Nasal sprays or ointments to keep nasal mucosa moist
- In persistent cases, nasal cauterization or packing may be needed
⚠️ When to See a Doctor:
- Bleeding lasts more than 20 minutes despite pressure
- Frequent or very heavy nosebleeds
- Nosebleed after injury or head trauma
- Signs of anemia (weakness, dizziness)
- Bleeding with other symptoms like easy bruising