Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds, or epistaxis, are a common condition where blood flows from one or both nostrils. While often alarming, most are minor and stop without intervention.
Overview
Nosebleeds, or epistaxis, are a common condition where blood flows from one or both nostrils. While often alarming, most are minor and stop without intervention. However, frequent or severe nosebleeds may signal an underlying health issue that requires expert evaluation.
What Causes Nosebleeds?
The inside of the nose contains many small blood vessels close to the surface, making them prone to irritation or injury. Nosebleeds are typically categorized as anterior (front of the nose) or posterior (deeper, back of the nose).
Common Causes of Anterior Nosebleeds
• Dry air: Especially common during winter or in dry climates
• Nose picking: Can injure delicate blood vessels
• Allergies, colds or sinus infections: Frequent blowing, sneezing or congestion
• Nasal sprays: Overuse or improper technique
• Foreign objects: Particularly in children
• Certain medications: Blood thinners such as warfarin, Plavix, Eliquis, Xarelto, etc.
• High blood pressure
Less Common but More Serious Causes (Posterior Nosebleeds)
• Sinus surgery
• Trauma
• Idiopathic (cause unknown)
• Nasal tumors (rare)
When to See an ENT Specialist
Most nosebleeds can be managed at home. However, consult our ear, nose and throat (ENT) team if you experience:
- Nosebleeds more than once a week
- Bleeding that lasts longer than 20 minutes, even with pressure
- Significant blood loss (more than a cup)
- Blood running down the throat
- New nosebleeds after starting medication
- Additional symptoms like paleness, fatigue or shortness of breath
Call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department if the bleeding is rapid, heavy or the result of head or facial trauma.
Common symptoms
Bleeding from the nose.
Specialty care
Treatment options
Our ENT specialists provide comprehensive care for frequent or severe nosebleeds
• Diagnosis: Includes a physical exam, nasal endoscopy, and possible lab work
• Nasal cautery: A simple, in-office procedure using silver nitrate or electric current to seal the bleeding vessel
• Nasal packing: Dissolvable material or inflatable devices to apply pressure to stop bleeding
• Medication adjustments: We coordinate with your primary care provider to manage blood pressure, blood thinners, or clotting disorders
• Surgery: For posterior nosebleeds, surgery to seal off the bleeding artery or an interventional radiology procedure may be required to control this more serious condition
Tips to Prevent Nosebleeds
• Use a saline spray or saline gel frequently to keep tissues moist
• Run a humidifier in your home, specifically the bedroom, especially during winter
• Avoid forceful nose blowing or nose picking
