Nosebleed

General Information on Nosebleed

A nosebleed (epistaxis) is a condition characterized by sudden bleeding from one or both nostrils. Nosebleeds are a result of injury to the blood vessels in the nose. Most nosebleeds are harmless and may be caused by dry air, allergies, or illness. However, in some cases, nosebleeds caused by injury and other causes may lead to severe bleeding. If this occurs medical attention may be necessary. Nosebleeds can occur close to the opening of the nostrils or deeper in the nose. The condition is 2 times more common in children than adults.

Symptoms of Nosebleed

Symptoms of a nosebleed depend on the cause and location of the bleeding. Bleeding from an artery may result in increased blood loss and other symptoms. Some symptoms of a nosebleed include:

Blood oozing from the nostrils - If the broken blood vessel is close in proximity to the nostril, the blood will usually appear bright red. If the broken vessel is further back in the nose, blood may appear darker

Rare cases of significant blood loss may present with such symptoms as:

Lightheadedness
Rapid heart beat
Shortness of breath
Paleness
Black stool (from swallowing blood)

Treatments For Nosebleed

In most cases the patient’s own observation of the symptoms is all that is required for a diagnosis. Self care is the most common form of treatment. Certain techniques for addressing a nose bleed may include sitting in an upright position with your head tilted forward. Apply pressure with your finger over your nostrils to clamp them shut for at least 5 minutes. During this time breathe through your mouth to avoid interrupting the pressure. Many nosebleeds will stop and then recur a few minutes to an hour later. If this happens, repeat the process for 8 to 10 minutes. This should give sufficient time for the blood to clot and close off the damaged vessel. In some cases placing a cold compress over your nose at the same time that you apply pressure may help. Finally, it is important to refrain from blowing your nose for up to 12 hours after bleeding has been disrupted. Agitation to the nose may cause the vessel to reopen.

In the instance of a severe nosebleed, self care measures will not always stop the bleeding. If bleeding persists, you become nauseas, or if your body temperature rises over 101 degrees Fahrenheit seek emergency treatment immediately. Treatment for severe nosebleeds usually includes gauze packing, which is inserted into the nostrils in order to exert additional pressure and absorb excess blood loss, cauterization, or surgery. Cauterization uses hear to seal of the blood vessel. Surgery is reserved for severe cases. It may be used to tie off the artery responsible for sending the blood to the damaged area.

Personal Experience

Nosebleed - personal experiences