Nosebleeds

at Allergy & ENT Associates of Middle TN

Though common and sometimes frightening, nosebleeds are rarely anything more than a nuisance. They are usually caused by minor irritation inside the nasal passages and are most common in children younger than 10 and adults older than 50.



While most nosebleeds are minor and easy to manage, recurring or severe bleeding should be evaluated to rule out underlying conditions.

What Nosebleeds Can Affect

Nosebleeds may be uncomfortable and alarming and can impact:

• Daily comfort and nasal irritation

• Sleep and breathing (if congestion is present)

• Safety if bleeding is heavy or recurring

• Overall quality of life in patients with frequent episodes

Most nosebleeds are harmless, but it is important to understand when medical attention is needed.

What Causes Nosebleeds?

Nosebleeds occur when the membranes lining the inside of the nose become dry and irritated. When this happens, blood vessels near the surface may break and bleed. Nosebleeds are especially common in winter months when air is cold and dry.

Other factors that may contribute to nosebleeds include:

• Colds and allergies

• Sinus infections

• Nose picking

• Blowing the nose too hard

• Frequent sneezing

• Overuse of nasal sprays

• Foreign objects in the nose



• Trauma to the nose

If nosebleeds are chronic or occur frequently, they may be related to high blood pressure or other vascular disease. In rare cases, frequent nosebleeds may indicate a more serious condition such as a tumor.

Symptoms and Types of Nosebleeds

The nose is prone to bleeding because many blood vessels lie close to the surface, particularly in the cartilage of the nasal septum. When these vessels burst, blood may trickle or seep from the nose.

Nosebleeds are often triggered by trauma, dry air, or irritation from blowing or picking the nose. Other causes include sinus infections, colds, allergies, foreign objects, blood clotting disorders, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and overuse of nasal sprays. Aspirin may worsen bleeding.

A hereditary disorder called hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia can also cause nosebleeds due to malformed blood vessels that break easily.

Most nosebleeds originate in the front of the nose and are called anterior nosebleeds. These are common, easy to control, and rarely serious.

Posterior nosebleeds are rare but more serious. They originate from an artery in the back of the nose and require immediate medical attention and hospitalization. Posterior nosebleeds are more common in older adults.

Treatment Options for Nosebleeds

If you experience a nosebleed, the most important step is to stay calm. Although nosebleeds may look serious, the amount of blood is often less than it appears.

To help stop a nosebleed:

• Sit down and lean forward slightly

• Pinch the nostrils together using the thumb and index finger

• Hold this position for at least five minutes, or until bleeding stops

Avoid blowing your nose afterward.

If bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes or occurs after facial injury, seek medical attention. Treatment may include cauterizing the blood vessels or placing nasal packing. Certain medications such as anticoagulants and anti-inflammatory drugs may also contribute to nosebleeds; if this is suspected, discuss alternative options with your provider.

Preventing Frequent Nosebleeds

If you experience recurring nosebleeds, prevention strategies may help, including:

• Keeping nasal lining moist using petroleum jelly several times a day

• Using saline nasal spray

• Running a humidifier, especially in dry climates

• Quitting smoking, which causes irritation and dryness

If recurring nosebleeds are a problem, evaluation by an otolaryngologist may be recommended.

Most nosebleeds are minor and rarely a cause for alarm. It is estimated that one out of every seven individuals experiences at least one nosebleed in their lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Call Allergy & ENT Associates at (615) 889-8802 to learn more or schedule an appointment.