Nosebleed

Overview * 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 Typesa. 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