Common Illnesses & Injuries

Nosebleed

Causes

Nosebleeds are a fairly common problem. They are twice as common in children than adults. Children tend to have bleeding from the front portion of the nose. Adults are more likely than children to have bleeding from the back of the nose, which can be more serious. Almost all nosebleeds are minor problems. They may look worse than they really are. Sometimes, however, they can develop into emergencies.

There are several causes of bleeding, including:

injury to the nose, such as a punch, car accident, or being hit with an object
nose picking or putting other objects in the nose
dry air
high altitudes
a violent sneeze or blowing the nose
drug abuse, such as cocaine or glue sniffing
chronic nose or sinus infections
small growths in the nose called polyps
problems with clotting and other blood disorders
high blood pressure
certain cancers

Bleeding from the front of the nose is usually not serious. The blood is bright red. You can usually stop the bleeding yourself. Sit up, bend your head slightly over a towel, and gently blow out any collected blood. Place a moist cotton ball or gauze in the bleeding nostril. Gently press the nostrils together for five to 10 minutes. Apply pressure with your thumb and first finger on the soft, movable part of the nose, just below the bony part. If you have a styptic pencil for stopping bleeding, apply it gently.

Avoid nose picking, bending, lifting, sneezing, and nose blowing. It helps to humidify the air during winter and in dry climates and high altitudes.

Blood from the back of the nose may be less bright. Packing gauze far into the nose is not easy. If bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes, see your healthcare provider right away or go to an emergency department or urgent care center.