What Causes Nosebleeds and How to Prevent Them

Nosebleeds are something that almost all of us have experienced in our lives, but they are often not a chronic condition people deal with. When nosebleeds become more frequent, this can be indicative of another underlying issue or something more serious. So, how do you know when you need to seek help from an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor for your nosebleed? Consider the common causes and associated issues that could present with a chronic nosebleed problem.

Causes of Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are quite common but can cause a lot of discomfort. Nosebleeds can occur due to various factors that affect the delicate blood vessels inside the nose. The most common cause of nosebleeds is trauma or injury to the nasal passages, like vigorous nose blowing, picking the nose or inserting objects into the nostrils. These actions can damage the blood vessels, leading to bleeding. Dry air, particularly in dry climates or during winter when indoor heating systems are in use, is another significant cause of nosebleeds. Dry air can dry out the nasal membranes, making them more susceptible to irritation and subsequent bleeding. Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air and saline nasal sprays or gels to keep the nasal passages moist can help prevent this. Nosebleeds can also be triggered by medical conditions such as allergies, sinus infections (sinusitis) or nasal polyps, which cause inflammation and irritation of the nasal lining. Certain medications, such as blood thinners (anticoagulants) or nasal decongestants used over an extended period, can also increase the risk of nosebleeds by affecting blood clotting or causing nasal dryness. In some cases, underlying health conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure), bleeding disorders (such as hemophilia) or structural abnormalities in the blood vessels of the nose (such as arteriovenous malformations) can contribute to recurrent or severe nosebleeds. It’s essential to identify the underlying cause of nosebleeds to determine appropriate treatment and preventive measures, especially if they occur frequently or are difficult to control.

How to stop nosebleeds

While not all nosebleeds are cause for concern, it’s helpful to know how to stop one if it develops. The following are the best practices for stopping or slowing a nosebleed:

• Apply gentle pressure, sit down and lean forward.
• Pinch your nostrils together with two fingers for five minutes or until bleeding stops.
• Then, push on both sides of the nose.
• Gently push downward in an inward motion across the bridge of your nose using three fingers from each hand just below either side of your eyes.
• Breathe through the mouth. Open wide and breathe in and out slowly while pinching your nostrils closed above one finger at all times to avoid swallowing blood.
• Tilt your head back so that blood flows towards the back of your throat and not down the windpipe. You can also prop up your head on a pillow if lying flat is uncomfortable.
• Sit tight for another five minutes to prevent blood from draining into the throat and stomach.
• Wait for bleeding to stop if you have a cold or flu, apply petroleum jelly to your nose. It will help prevent tissue damage from the inside of the nose.

Prevention of Nosebleeds

One key preventive measure is to keep the nasal passages moist. This can be achieved by using a humidifier in dry indoor environments, especially during winter when indoor heating systems can dry out the air. Applying a thin layer of saline nasal spray or nasal gel can also help keep the nasal tissues hydrated and less prone to irritation. Avoiding nasal trauma is another essential aspect of preventing nosebleeds. This includes refraining from picking the nose or inserting foreign objects into the nasal cavity, which can damage the nasal lining and blood vessels. When blowing the nose, it’s advisable to do so gently and one nostril at a time to reduce the risk of excessive pressure on the nasal membranes. For individuals prone to frequent nosebleeds, especially those with underlying conditions like allergies or hypertension, consulting with your ENT doctor to identify potential triggers and receive personalized advice on preventive measures is recommended.

When to See a Professional

When dealing with a nosebleed, knowing when to seek medical help is crucial for ensuring your health and safety. If you experience a nosebleed that persists for more than 20 minutes despite applying pressure, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Prolonged bleeding may indicate an underlying issue that needs attention, such as a bleeding disorder or high blood pressure, both of which can exacerbate nosebleeds. Similarly, recurrent nosebleeds, especially without an obvious cause like trauma or dry air, warrant medical evaluation. These could be indicative of conditions such as sinus infections, nasal polyps or even structural abnormalities within the nasal passages that require diagnosis and treatment. Individuals with known bleeding disorders or those taking medications that affect blood clotting should also seek medical advice if they experience nosebleeds, as management may involve adjusting medication dosages or implementing specific care strategies. Learn more about Mountain Ear, Nose & Throat Associates by calling us today at one of our convenient locations in:

• Sylva: 828-586-7474
• Franklin: 828-524-5599
• Murphy: 828-835-1014
• New Asheville: 828-458-8100