Nose Bleed

Nose bleeds are very common and can be a side effect of nasal irritation and dryness. People who take blood thinners for hypertension or heart conditions, such as aspirin or warfarin (Coumadin), may be susceptible to chronic nose bleeds.

About Nose Bleed

Nose bleeds are very common due to the occurrence of the many blood vessels in this area, as well as the position of the nose in the front of the face. The function of the nose as an intake for oxygen causes regular air flow that can produce collections of debris that can irritate the lining of the nose. Also, changes in the temperature can cause a drying out of the lining of the nose, such as going from air conditioned rooms to hot outside air or heated indoor rooms to cold outside air.

Viral infections, such as the common cold, can cause disruptions and irritation of the nasal membranes that many lead to nose bleeding. Airborne allergens that are trapped in the lining of the nose can often irritate nasal passages. Both of these conditions may also lead to frequent blowing of the nose to remove irritants, which alone may cause the nose to bleed. The nose is very vulnerable to injury due to its prominence and the weakness of its structure.

People who take blood thinners for hypertension or heart conditions, such as aspirin or warfarin (Coumadin), may be susceptible to chronic nose bleeds. Also, those who have hemophilia will be susceptible to episodes of nose bleeding, due to the inability of the blood to clot. People who suffer from certain kidney or liver disorders may also be susceptible to nose bleeding for the same reason. In addition, inherited vitamin deficiencies can even be a factor. Infection and allergies are another cause of nose bleeds.

Bleeding of the nose most often occurs in the front of the nasal septum, which is the membrane that separates the two sides of the nose. This area contains many small blood vessels that can be easily irritated or injured. This blood will usually exit through the nostrils. However, bleeding may be in the back of the nose and this blood will be caught in the throat. This may cause a coughing, gagging or a feeling of fullness in the ears.

The most commonly recommended method to treat minor nose bleeding is to apply gentle pressure by pinching the nostrils together to stop the flow of blood. An ice pack may also be applied to slow down blood flow. Lying down is not recommended, since this may cause blood to go down the throat. Leaning forward is recommended to contain the blood flow to the immediate area.

Minor nose bleeding should stop within 10 to 15 minutes. If bleeding does not stop after this time, medical attention may be required. If force trauma has caused the bleeding, there may be damage to the bone structure that will require immediate medical attention. Nose bleeding with no known cause may be an indication of a more serious medical condition, such as internal hemorrhaging or tumors.

You should seek immediate medical attention if the bleeding cannot be stopped or keeps occurring. If the bleeding is rapid or if there is a large blood loss you should see a doctor. Also, if you feel weak or faint (presumably from the blood loss) and/or if your nosebleed is associated with a fever or headache you should seek immediate medical attention. If your infant or baby has a nosebleed, contact the pediatrician.

Created by vickiz

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