About 60% of all nosebleeds are relatively harmless, while about 34% are a minor problem that may need further medical assistance and 6% requiring medical care. There are a few occasions when a nosebleed may be little more than just a fluke while other times it is imperative you seek medical care. To help understand more about nosebleeds and their significance, ENT Specialists will share more about nosebleeds and if it coincides with a serious condition.
What Causes a Nose Bleed?
Epistaxis or better known as nosebleeds, is defined as bleeding originating from the nostrils, nasal cavity, or the nasopharynx, which is the area that is behind the nose. Nosebleeds are the result of the blood vessels inside the nose, bursting. Nosebleeds are typically spontaneous and is most commonly a result of trauma to the nose area. However, there are many causes of nosebleeds such as:
• Cold or Dry Air
• Irritations from either Colds, Allergies, and other Sinus Problems
• Excessive Nose Blowing
• Nose Picking or Foreign Objects Inside Nose
• Injury or Trauma To the Nose
• Drug Use (Such as Cocaine)
• Abnormal or Punctured Septum
• Chemical Irritations
• Overuse of Nasal Decongestants, such as Nasal Sprays
Most of these types of common causes for nosebleeds are not a major medical concern. Broken noses is one exception where it is important to get x-rays to ensure there isn’t any major concerns such as blocked air ways in the nasal cavity. However, as the majority of nosebleeds aren’t a major problem, there are some cases where nosebleeds are not normal and can be a sign of serious health problems.
If you are having a minor nosebleed, sit upright, tilt you head back and pinch or apply pressure to the lower end of the nose or nostrils for a few minutes. You can also roll tissues or use cotton swabs to plug the nostrils. This will soak up the blood. If bleeding lasts for over 20 minutes, seek medical care.
There are some medical conditions where nosebleeds may be a symptom or a sign of bigger problems. For example, frequent nosebleeds that occur more than once a week is not typically normal. Frequent nosebleeds are often a sign of a more major problem. Along with frequent nosebleeds, extended nose bleeding is also not regarded as normal either. If a nosebleed lasts longer than 20 minutes, seek medical attention. Extended nose bleeding is most often due to a head injury such as a skull fracture. If the nose is broken, that too can cause extended bleeding and is a concern if the nose appears out of place or is misshapen. If you are having frequent nosebleeds, consider scheduling an appointment with your doctor. Frequent nosebleeds are associated with tumors within the sinus, kidney disease, and nasal polyps.
For those who are experiencing frequent or prolonged nosebleeds, make an appointment with an ENT specialist to help diagnose the possible causes of your nosebleeds. Contact ENT Specialists if you are having nosebleeds and are seeking relief. For ears, nose and throat care, contact ENT Specialists today!
