Care And Prevention
Most nosebleeds are mere nuisances; but some are quite frightening, and a few are even life-threatening. Physicians classify nosebleeds into two different types.
1. Anterior Nosebleed: The nosebleed that comes from the front part of the nose from one or the other nostril if the patient is sitting up or standing.
2. Posterior Nosebleed: The nosebleed that comes from deep in the nose and flows down the back of the nose into the throat even if the patient is sitting up or standing.
Obviously, if the patient is lying down, even the anterior nosebleeds seem to flow in both directions, especially if the patient is coughing or blowing their nose.
Nevertheless, it is important to try to make the distinction since posterior nosebleeds are often more severe and almost always require the physician's care. Posterior nosebleeds are more likely to occur in older people, persons with high blood pressure, and in cases of injury to the nose or face.
Nosebleeds in children are almost always of the anterior type. Anterior nosebleeds are common in dry climates or during the winter months when the dry air patches the nasal membranes so that they crust, crack, and bleed.
This can be prevented if you place a bit of lubricating cream or ointment about the size of a pea on the end of your fingertip and then rub it up inside the nose, especially on the middle portion (the septum).
If the nosebleeds persist, you should see your ENT Surgeon, who may recommend cautery of the blood vessel that is causing the problem.
If Nosebleeds are frequent or severe, don’t delay seeking advice from a qualified ENT specialist.
To Stop An Anterior Nosebleed
If you or your child has an anterior nosebleed, you may be able to care for it yourself using the following steps:
- Pinch all the soft parts of the nose together between your thumb and two fingers
- Press firmly toward the face, compressing the pinched parts of the nose against the bones of the face.
- Hold it for 5 minutes (timed by a clock).
- Keep your head higher than the level of your heart - sit up or lie with your head elevated.
- Apply ice (crushed in a plastic bag or washcloth) to your nose and cheeks.
To Prevent Rebleeding After Bleeding Has Stopped
- Do not pick or blow your nose (sniffing is all right).
- Do not strain or bend down to lift anything heavy.
- Keep your head higher than the level of your heart.
If Rebleeding Occurs
- Pinch and press your nose into your face again, as in steps 1-3 abov
- Call a doctor.
- Visit the hospital immediately.
When To Call The Doctor Or Go To A Hospital Emergency Room?
- IF bleeding cannot be stopped or keeps reappearing.
- IF bleeding is rapid or if blood loss is large.
- IF you feel weak or faint, presumably from blood loss
- IF bleeding begins by going down the back of the throat rather than the front of the nose
Experiencing persistent or severe nosebleeds? Consult the best ENT surgeon in Hyderabad at Dr. Deenadayal’s ENT Care Centre for expert diagnosis and long-term relief.