NOSEBLEEDS – CAUSES, TREATMENT & PREVENTION

Nosebleeds are a common occurrence that are uncomfortable and inconvenient. They can be caused by many things, such as allergies, a head injury, or a bad cold. Some people may just get an occasional nosebleed while others may have recurring episodes. One of the most common causes of nosebleeds is dryness in the nasal passages due to low humidity or air conditioning in the home or workplace. In this article, you will find quick tips to help you identify the cause and treat your nosebleed right away.

CAUSES OF A NOSEBLEED

• Allergies
• Head injury
• Bad cold
• Dryness in nasal passages due to low humidity or air conditioning
• Excessive nose picking
• Frequent nose blowing
• Nasal polyps
• Deviated septum
• Tumors

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR NOSE IS BLEEDING?

First & most important thing to do in a nosebleed situation is to try to stop the bleeding. Sit or lie down and elevate your head so that it's higher than your heart. Then pinch your nostrils together and tilt your head back. You can also use a piece of tissue to plug up the nose if you have nothing else on hand. To stop bleeding, apply pressure for about 10 minutes with pressure points inside the nose (the ethmoid bone).

Later, reach out to your nearest healthcare facility for medical attention & subsequent treatment.

Treatment for nosebleeds varies depending on the severity. For milder cases, you can use ice packs or cold compresses to stop the bleeding. For more severe cases, doctors may recommend packing the nose with gauze. In extreme cases, surgery might be required to repair a deviated septum or other issue that is causing the bleeding.

HOW TO PREVENT A NOSEBLEED?

• Keep the lining of the nose moist
• Trim fingernails
• Don’t pick your nose
• Use a humidifier
• Wear protective equipment
• Don’t smoke
• Don’t use cold and allergy medications too often

Dr. PVLN Murthy

DLO, DNB
Consultant ENT,
Otorhinolaryngologist
Star Hospitals, Hyderabad

For Appointments, Contact: 040 - 4477 7700