Nosebleeds, or epistaxis, are caused by the rupture of blood vessels in the nasal lining due to dry air, colds, allergies, medication, and deviated septum. Treatment can be done at home by remaining calm, leaning forward, and pinching the nose. Emergency assistance may be needed if bleeding persists or is related to an injury.
Epistaxis is also known as a nosebleed. The nasal passages are lined with a rich supply of blood vessels located near the surface. Due to the location of the blood vessels in the lining of the nose, they can be easily injured and subsequently bleed. Typically, because the lining of the nose is so full of blood vessels, even the slightest irritation can cause an episode. Generally, nosebleeds tend to appear more severe than they actually are.
Some common causes are dry air indoors and head or chest colds. Generally, dry hot air dries out the membranes in the nose which can cause them to rupture. When the delicate mucous membranes in the nasal lining rupture, they can start bleeding. Head and chest colds can also contribute to nosebleeds due to continued irritation from sneezing, nose blowing, and coughing. Also, allergies can cause your nose to bleed in the same way as a cold. Rarely, high blood pressure can make your nose bleed.
Occasionally, nosebleeds can be caused by certain medications. Typically, prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs and blood thinners can cause your nose to bleed. In addition to medications, a condition known as a deviated septum can contribute to nosebleeds. A “deviated septum” refers to an abnormality in the shape of the septum that divides both sides of the nose. Rhinoplasty or nose surgery can usually correct this condition.
Treatment for nosebleeds can usually be done at home. Remaining calm is important in treating a nosebleed. While remaining calm, the individual should sit and lean the body slightly and lean forward. Leaning forward can prevent blood from flowing down the throat. When blood leaks into the throat, it can cause nausea, vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea. In addition to leaning forward, pinching the soft part of your nose together for five minutes can stop the bleeding.
After the bleeding episode has stopped, you should avoid bending over and lifting heavy objects for a few days. Also, blowing or rubbing your nose should also be discouraged for several days. The nose should be left alone as the clot that forms from the bleeding could break loose and cause the bleeding to precipitate again.
Although most cases of nosebleeds are not serious, emergency assistance may sometimes be needed. If bleeding persists after applying continuous pressure for 20 minutes, medical treatment is needed. Also, if the blood loss is becoming rapid and profuse, or if the blood loss is related to an injury, emergency treatment should be sought. More importantly, if the individual feels faint or weak from blood loss, they should seek immediate emergency intervention.
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