Nose Bleed, also known as Epistaxis, is one of the common problems affecting children more often compared to adults. Nosebleeds, though common, are rarely harmful and is caused due to the bleeding.
What Are The Common Causes of Nose Bleed?
When the superficial blood vessels lining the inside of the nose are damaged, it causes bleeding. Here are some of the common reasons that can damage the blood vessels:
-Nose picking
-Dryness
-Allergies
-Use of blood-thinning medications such as aspirin
-Sinusitis (acute or chronic)
-Frequent use of nasal sprays
-Drug abuse (especially cocaine)
-Severe bouts of common cold
How Can You Manage Nose Bleed?
Here are some quick self-care methods to treat nosebleeds:
-Sit straight. It helps to reduce the pressure of blood to the nose
-Bend forward. It helps to avoid gulping down the nasal blood and instead assists the blood to flow out of the nose
-Do not blow the nose to remove any clotted blood
-You may use nasal compression, by applying pressure on the nose using the thumb and index finger, to stop bleeding.
-Apply an ice pack (wrapped in a towel) to the nose and cheeks.
Can Nose Bleed Be Prevented?
Here are a few handy tips one can use to prevent nosebleeds entirely: –
-Keep the nails well-trimmed to avoid scratches inside the nostrils
-Moisturize the inner nasal membranes regularly. You can use petroleum jelly or antibiotic creams and ointments or saline nasal sprays to prevent dryness during cold and dry weather
-Quit drugs, smoking, and alcohol. Excessive intake of alcohol and smoke leads to dehydration and also delays the healing process.
-If there is a nosebleed in a patient with high blood pressure, it is an emergency that needs to be immediately attended to by a doctor
-Avoid blowing the nose with excessive force that can break the delicate blood vessels of the nose
-To immediately control and prevent bleeding, keep the head elevated at a level above the heart while lying down.
When Should You See a Doctor?
In most cases, nosebleeds can be managed at home, but, it is best to see a doctor if:
-The bleeding does not stop even after 20 minutes
-The patient is on blood thinners or suffers from high blood pressure
-Nosebleed episodes are more frequent