Nose Bleeding
Nosebleeds can occur due to simple reasons, or they can be a sign of life-threatening diseases. Nosebleeds are divided into two as anterior and posterior nosebleeds. Serious bleeding occurs at the back of the nose. It is very important to find the cause of posterior nosebleeds. This type of bleeding requires the follow-up of a specialist. Posterior bleeding is mostly seen in elderly people due to the presence of high blood pressure.
What are the causes of nosebleeds?
Nosebleeds are divided into two as anterior and posterior nosebleeds.
Anterior nosebleeds: They are bleeding that occur at the front of the nose and manifest themselves as bleeding from the nostril of a person standing or sitting. It is a common type of bleeding in children. Dry air or crusting seen in winter months causes bleeding.
Posterior nosebleeds: In this type of bleeding, the blood flows towards the throat. The bleeding continues towards the throat even when sitting or standing. Even when the patient lies on his back, the bleeding will go to the back as well as the front. It is very important to find the cause of posterior nosebleeds.
How to stop anterior nosebleeds?
If you or your child has anterior nosebleeds, you can do the following:
- Place the soft part of the tip of the nose between your thumb and two fingers.
- Press the nose towards your face with the finger pinched.
- Wait like this for 5 minutes. (Hold for a minute.)
- Make sure to keep your head higher than your heart. Therefore, it is recommended that you sit or lie down with your head higher.
- Apply cold to your nose and cheeks by filling a plastic bag with ice.
- To protect yourself from this type of bleeding, it will be useful to apply a moisturizing cream to the middle section of the nose with your fingertip 3 times a day (especially before going to bed at night).
How to stop posterior nosebleeds?
Rear nosebleeds are usually caused by high blood pressure, which is seen in older people. Posterior nosebleeds can also be seen in people who have suffered trauma. In cases of this type of bleeding, it is essential to see an ENT doctor.
How to prevent bleeding from reoccurring after stopping?
To prevent bleeding from starting again after stopping:
- Be careful not to blow your nose.
- Do not make strenuous movements such as lifting something heavy from the floor.
- Try to keep your head higher than your chest.
If bleeding occurs again despite this:
- Clear all clots in your nose by blowing your nose.
- Spray decongestant nasal spray into both nostrils 3-4 times a day.
- Squeeze the nose by applying pressure as in steps 1 and 3 at the beginning.
When should you see a doctor?
- If the bleeding does not stop or if the nose tends to bleed again
- If you feel tired and weak because of the bleeding,
- If your bleeding is towards the back of your throat rather than the front of your nose, go to the emergency room or doctor.