Nosebleeds
in Children and Adults: Causes, Management and Treatment
Nosebleeds (epistaxis) are common and usually not serious, but they can be distressing for both adults and children. Most nosebleeds occur from the front part of the nose, where small blood vessels are located. These vessels can break easily due to various reasons.
Nosebleeds (epistaxis) are common and usually not serious, but they can be distressing for both adults and children. Most nosebleeds occur from the front part of the nose, where small blood vessels are located. These vessels can break easily due to various reasons.
Common Causes include:
- Dry air or cold weather can dry out the nasal passages, causing bleeding.
- Allergies or nasal/ sinus infections can irritate the nose and lead to nosebleeds.
- Frequent nose picking or blowing the nose too hard can damage blood vessels.
- Medications, like blood thinners or nasal sprays, may contribute to bleeding.
- Structural issues such as a deviated septum, can cause recurring nosebleeds.
Management and Treatment:
- Pinch the nostrils together and lean forward, keeping the head slightly forward to prevent blood from flowing back into the throat.
- Apply a cold compress to the bridge of the nose and back of the neck
- Use saline nasal sprays, gels or a humidifier to keep the nasal passages moist.
- If the bleeding doesn’t stop after 10-15 minutes, seek urgent medical help.
When to See an ENT Specialist:
If nosebleeds are frequent, severe, or don’t stop with creams or ointments or basic first aid, it's important to see an ENT consultant. We can explore underlying causes, such as structural issues or medical conditions, and offer treatments like cauterisation, nasal packing, or, in rare cases, surgery.
Prompt treatment can help manage nosebleeds and prevent recurrence, improving comfort for both children and adults.