Simple steps can help get nosebleeds under control
At some point in their lifetimes, most people will experience a nosebleed.
It’s common for adults and children, especially during dry winter months. Although rarely life-threatening, nosebleeds can cause anxiety and sometimes are difficult to control.
Epistaxis, more commonly known as a nosebleed, occurs when a small blood vessel in the nose ruptures. The bleeding most commonly arises from the nasal septum, the partition that divides the two sides of your nose on the inside. The rupture can occur when something traumatizes or irritates the mucosa lining of the septum. Common causes are nose-picking, forcefully blowing the nose or an impact to the outside of the nose or face.
Nosebleeds are more likely to occur when the nasal mucosa is dry and irritated.
When there is low moisture content in the air, the blood vessels are more prone to tearing. A person also may be more likely to experience a nosebleed during an allergy episode or when fighting an upper respiratory infection.
Follow these tips to avoid nosebleeds.
Avoid vigorous noseblowing and stuffing tissues or other objects into the nose.
Discourage children from nose-picking and keep their fingernails trimmed.
Use over-the-counter nasal saline sprays and topical moisturizing gels to moisten the nasal mucosa.
Use a home humidifier to keep moisture in the air during winter.
Fortunately, most nosebleeds stop on their own after a few minutes. For serious bleeds or frequent nosebleeds, seek medical attention with your health care team or in an emergency department.