19/09/2025
Nosebleeds, medically referred to as epistaxis, are a common yet often alarming occurrence. They happen when the fragile blood vessels in the nasal passages rupture, resulting in bleeding.
Triggering factors include dry air, minor injuries, or repeated nose blowing/sneezing. While most episodes are harmless and easily treated with basic first aid, persistent or heavy bleeding may signal a more serious issue requiring medical attention.
Types of Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds can be classified into two main types based on their origin:
Anterior Nosebleeds
Anterior nosebleeds are the most common type, caused by ruptures in the blood vessels near the front of the nose. Triggers include dry air, nose picking, or minor trauma. These nosebleeds are generally straightforward to manage with simple first-aid measures.
Posterior Nosebleeds
Posterior nosebleeds are less common but more serious. These occur deeper in the nasal cavity, where larger blood vessels are located. They may result in heavier bleeding and can be more challenging to control. Posterior nosebleeds are often linked to underlying medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, and typically require medical assistance.
Common Reasons of Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds can be triggered by various factors, some of which are more common than others:
Dry Air: Exposure to dry environments, especially during the winter months or in areas with low humidity such as prolonged time spent in cold air conditioned spaces such as office/ operation theatre, can dry out the nasal passages and make the blood vessels more prone to breaking.
Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause irritation and inflammation in the nasal passages, leading to frequent nosebleeds.
Nose Picking or Blowing: These actions can damage the sensitive blood vessels inside the nose, leading to bleeding.
Injury or Trauma: A blow to the nose or even vigorous rubbing can cause blood vessels to break and result in a nosebleed.
Medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners or nasal decongestants, can increase the likelihood of nosebleeds by affecting blood clotting or drying out the nasal passages.
Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions like high blood pressure, bleeding disorders, or structural issues in the nose, such as a deviated septum, can make nosebleeds more frequent or severe.
Step-by-Step First Aid for Nosebleeds
Managing a nosebleed quickly and effectively requires calmness and following these clear steps:
Sit Upright and Lean Forward: Sit down in an upright position. This helps reduce blood flow to the nose and prevents the blood from draining into the throat, which could cause choking or nausea. Lean forward slightly to allow the blood to drain out of the nose instead of going down the throat.
Pinch the Soft Part of the Nose: Firmly pinch the soft, lower part of the nose using your thumb and index finger. Maintain steady pressure for 10 to 15 minutes to compress the blood vessels and halt bleeding. Ensure the grip is firm but not overly tight to avoid discomfort.
Breathe Through the Mouth: During the first aid process, it is important to breathe through the mouth. Speaking of swallowing should be avoided as it can disrupt the pressure on the nose, making it harder to stop the bleeding.
Apply a Cold Compress : Apply a cold compress to the bridge of the nose or the back of the neck. The cold constricts blood vessels, aiding in slowing or stopping the bleeding. Use a cloth-wrapped ice pack or a chilled towel to avoid direct skin contact and potential irritation.
Avoid Blowing or Picking the Nose: After the bleeding has stopped, avoid blowing or picking the nose for several hours. These actions can cause the blood vessels to break again, leading to a return of the bleeding.
Things to Avoid During a Nosebleed
To manage a nosebleed effectively and prevent it from worsening, avoid the following actions:
Tilting the Head Back: While it may seem instinctive, tilting the head back during a nosebleed can cause blood to flow into the throat, potentially leading to swallowing or choking. Always lean forward slightly to allow the blood to drain safely from the nose.
Lying Down: Lying down can increase blood flow to the nose and make the situation worse. It is important to stay upright, which helps reduce the bleeding.
Blowing the Nose: Blowing the nose can disturb the blood vessels and trigger further bleeding. After the bleeding stops, avoid blowing the nose for several hours to ensure the area heals properly.
Talking or Moving Around Excessively: Speaking, swallowing, or moving about too much can increase blood pressure and aggravate the bleeding. It's best to remain still, stay calm, and breathe through the mouth during the first aid process.
By avoiding these actions, the chances of stopping the bleeding quickly are higher, and the recovery process is smoother.
When to Seek Medical Help
Most nosebleeds can be managed at home, but there are certain situations where medical attention is necessary:
Bleeding Persists for More Than 20 Minutes: Seek immediate medical attention if bleeding persists despite applying pressure for 10 to 15 minutes. This may indicate a more serious underlying issue, such as a bleeding disorder or posterior nosebleed, requiring professional evaluation.
Heavy or Uncontrolled Bleeding: If the nosebleed is particularly heavy or does not stop, it could be a sign of a more severe underlying condition, such as a bleeding disorder, requiring immediate medical intervention.
Nosebleed Following a Head Injury: A nosebleed that occurs after a blow to the head or face might signal a more serious injury, such as a skull fracture, and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Frequent Nosebleeds Without Clear Cause: If nosebleeds occur regularly without an obvious cause, such as dry air or minor injury, it may indicate an underlying health condition, like high blood pressure or a clotting disorder, which requires medical assessment.
Additional Symptoms: If there are signs of dizziness, weakness, or difficulty breathing alongside the nosebleed, this could be a sign of a more serious condition, requiring immediate medical attention.
Seeking medical help promptly in these situations ensures the correct treatment and prevents potential complications.
