Bleeding from nose

21) BLEEDING FROM NOSE-

A nose bleed occurs when a small vein, along the lining of nose, bursts • Most nosebleeds look scary, but are harmless • Can be treated at home • Common in children/elderly

Causes • Dryness • Nose picking • Blowing nose with force • Use of medications, like aspirin • Introducing objects into nose (mostly children) • Injuries • Allergies • Infections • High BP • Atherosclerosis • Blood-clotting disorders • Use of cocaine Symptoms •

Bleeding from nose • Sometimes bleeding from ears/mouth too Types a. Anterior Nosebleed • Affects lower part of wall that separates nostrils • The wall or septum contains blood vessels • These can be broken by blow to nose/fingernail • The bleeding starts from front of nose • It flows outward when patient is sitting/standing • Occurs during dry season/harsh winter b. Posterior Nosebleed • The bleeding starts deep within the nose • It flows down the back of the mouth & throat • This happens even when the person is sitting/standing • Occurs in old people/those with high BP/injuries • This type of bleeding is severe/ requires medical help

Treatment • If your nose bleeds, • Sit down and lean forward • Using your thumb & index finger, squeeze soft part of nose • This part is between end of nose and the bridge of nose • Continue holding till bleeding stops- • Do not stop in-between • If bleeding continues, hold for another 10 minutes • If the patient is a child, divert attention by TV/Stories • Avoid picking, blowing or rubbing nose for 2 days • Place an ice pack on the bridge of nose Consult a Doctor If, • The bleeding continues for more than 15 minutes • The bleeding is caused by an injury • You get nosebleeds often

Prevention • Keep fingernails short • Quit smoking • Open your mouth while sneezing • Use a humidifier at night in case of dry weather Read more: Nose Bleed – First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide.