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Nosebleeds, or epistaxis, are common and usually not serious, caused by dry air, injury, medication, or medical conditions. Applying pressure to the nose can stop bleeding, but persistent or heavy nosebleeds should be evaluated by a doctor.
Nosebleed, scientifically known as epistaxis, is a medical condition resulting from a nosebleed. They are quite common and in most cases are not serious. Dry air, injury or trauma, and certain medications are often responsible for the bleeding, which usually goes away on its own. In some cases, however, nosebleeds can be much more serious and can last for extended periods. It’s usually a good idea for people whose nose bleeds continuously to get medical help.
Dry air
Lack of moisture in the air is one of the main causes of nosebleeds. The human nose is filled with blood vessels, many of which are exposed to the outside environment through openings in the nostrils. Under ideal conditions, the nostrils remain moist with mucus. However, when the outside air is particularly arid or dry, the mucus tends to harden or disappear, causing the membranes of the nose to rupture and harden and blood vessels to rupture, resulting in temporary bleeding.
Dry air is most common indoors during the winter months, as heaters often remove moisture from the air. Mountain and desert climates are also guilty all year round. Using indoor humidifiers and drinking plenty of water are usually the best ways to counteract these conditions.
Trauma
Nose injuries can also lead to bleeding. The nose is quite sensitive and tends to bleed quite easily when hit, injured or fractured. Excessive nasal pressure, such as that experienced at high altitudes or on airplanes, can also lead to nosebleeds. Respiratory allergies, persistent nose picking, and high blood pressure can also be causes.
Medicines
In some cases, nosebleeds are caused by prescription medications, especially those that prevent blood from clotting normally. Anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirin have also been linked to nosebleeds when used for prolonged periods. People who take these medications regularly may experience regular, heavy nosebleeds as a normal side effect of treatment.
Hereditary diseases and conditions
A number of diseases and conditions can also cause nosebleeds. Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and Wegener’s granulomatosis are two of the more common examples. Sarcoidosis and Von Willebrand disease, cancer of the neck or head, or nasal polyps are rarer, but still well documented.
Internal deformities such as a deviated septum or misaligned nasal passages can also lead to bleeding. None of these conditions are serious, but they can lead to mucus drainage problems over time, as well as persistent and recurring nosebleeds.
Pregnancy
Many women experience nosebleeds as a side effect of pregnancy. As the body changes to grow and nourish a fetus, blood vessels often dilate and become more sensitive. At the same time, the mucous membranes often work overtime. Nosebleeds during pregnancy are usually more bothersome than worrisome, and most go away on their own with time.
Treatment options and cures
In most cases, applying direct pressure to the nose can stop the bleeding, although there is some controversy when it comes to where, exactly, the pressure should be applied. According to some experts, it is best to apply pressure to the bridge of the nose, while others believe it is best to focus on the fleshy area. Similarly, some experts believe it is best to tilt the head forward to drain blood, while others believe it is best to tilt the head back to minimize the amount of blood lost. In most cases, trial and error is the best policy: Individual sufferers should find what works best for them, then stick with it.
Importance of medical evaluation
Nosebleeds are rarely serious, but persistent or recurring bleeding can be a sign or many different treatable medical conditions. People who suffer from regular nosebleeds that are heavy or don’t stop after a few minutes would do well to consult a professional doctor.
