What causes nosebleeds

Nosebleeds Overview

Nosebleeds can be striking and frightening. Fortunately, most nosebleeds are not serious and usually can be managed at home, although sometimes medical intervention may be necessary. Nosebleeds (epistaxis) are categorized based on where they originate, and are described as either anterior (originating from the front of the nose) or posterior (originating from the back of the nose).

* Anterior nosebleeds make up more than 90% of all nosebleeds. The bleeding usually originates from a blood vessel on the nasal septum. Anterior nosebleeds are usually easy to control, either by measures that can be performed at home or by a doctor.

* Posterior nosebleeds are much less common than anterior nosebleeds. They tend to occur more often in elderly people. The bleeding usually originates from an artery in the back part of the nose. These nosebleeds are more complicated and usually require admission to the hospital and management by an otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat specialist).

One out of every seven people will develop a nosebleed at some time in their lives. Nosebleeds tend to occur more often during winter months and in dry, cold climates. They can occur at any age, but are most common in children aged 2-10 years and adults aged 50-80 years. For unknown reasons, nosebleeds most commonly occur in the morning hours.

Nosebleeds Causes

Most nosebleeds do not have an easily identifiable cause. However, trauma to the nose is a common cause of nosebleeds. Trauma to the outside of the nose from a blow to the face, or trauma to the inside of the nose from nose picking both often initiate a nosebleed. Local irritation inside the nose from a nasal or sinus infection can also cause nosebleeds.

Less commonly, an underlying disease process or taking certain medications may cause a nosebleed or make it more difficult to control.

* Inability of the blood to clot is most often due to blood-thinning medications such as warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin.

* Liver disease can also interfere with blood clotting.

* Abnormal blood vessels in the nose and nasal cancers are rare causes of nosebleeds.

* High blood pressure may contribute to bleeding but is almost never the only reason for a nosebleed.

Nosebleeds Symptoms

Bleeding usually occurs from only one nostril. If the bleeding is heavy enough, the blood can fill up the affected nostril and overflow into the nasopharynx (the area inside the nose where the two nostrils converge), causing simultaneous bleeding from the other nostril as well. Blood can also drip into the back of the throat or down into the stomach, causing a person to spit up or even vomit blood.

Signs of excessive blood loss include:

* dizziness,

* weakness,

* confusion, and

* fainting.

When to Seek Medical Care

Contact a health care practitioner if the person experiences the following:

* repeated episodes of nosebleeds;

* additional bleeding from places other than the nose, such as in the urine or stool;

* bruising easily;

* if the person has nosebleeds and is any blood-thinning medications, including aspirin or warfarin (Coumadin);

* if the person has nosebleeds and any underlying disease that may affect blood clotting, such as liver disease, kidney disease, or hemophilia (inability of blood to clot); or

* if the person has nosebleeds and recently had chemotherapy.

Source: emedicinehealth