Nosebleed

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Nasal bleeding)

Epistaxis, more commonly known as a nosebleed, is a frequent medical occurrence characterized by hemorrhage (bleeding) from the nostrils, nasal cavity, or nasopharynx. Despite the fact that it can cause anxiety due to the visible nature of the bleed, it is usually benign and can be managed effectively with simple first aid measures.

Etiology[edit | edit source]

Epistaxis can occur as a result of numerous factors. However, it is most often attributed to one of two sources:

  • Local factors such as dryness of the nasal mucosa, trauma (including nose-picking), infections, use of topical nasal medications, nasal inhalation of illicit substances, and abnormalities in the structure of the nasal septum.
  • Systemic factors such as hypertension (high blood pressure), blood clotting disorders (like hemophilia and Von Willebrand disease), use of anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents, alcohol abuse, and certain inherited conditions.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

From an anatomical perspective, nosebleeds are classified as either anterior or posterior, depending on the source of the bleed.

  • Anterior nosebleeds are more common, accounting for nearly 90% of cases, and originate from 'Kiesselbach’s plexus', a network of vessels in the anterior part of the nasal septum.
  • Posterior nosebleeds are typically more severe and originate from the branches of the sphenopalatine artery in the posterior nasal cavity.

Management[edit | edit source]

For the majority of nosebleeds, simple first aid measures are sufficient to control bleeding. This includes leaning slightly forward (to prevent blood from going down the throat), pinching the nostrils together, and applying a cold compress to the nose. If bleeding continues for more than 15 minutes, or is heavy and associated with symptoms like dizziness, it's necessary to seek immediate medical attention.

In more severe or persistent cases, medical intervention may be required. This could involve cauterization of the bleeding vessel, nasal packing, or in rare cases, surgical intervention or arterial ligation.

References[edit | edit source]

See Also[edit | edit source]

Nosebleed Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD