Nosebleed
Overview
Nosebleeds are not usually a sign of anything serious. They're common, particularly in children, and most can be easily treated at home.
Symptoms
Bleeding from one/both nostrils. Usually light & short.
Causes
The inside of the nose is easy to damage and that's when nosebleeds happen. This can be caused by: picking your noseblowing your nose too hardthe inside of your nose being too dry (maybe because of a change in air temperature) Nosebleeds that need medical attention can come from deeper inside the nose and usually affect adults. They can be caused by: an injury or broken noseconditions that affect the blood vessels or how the blood clotscertain medicines, like warfarin Sometimes the cause of a nosebleed is unknown. Certain people are more likely to getting nosebleeds, including: childrenadults over 45 years oldpregnant womenpeople with high blood pressure
Treatment
This video shows you how to treat a nosebleed. If you have a nosebleed and a doctor can see where the blood is coming from, they may use a stick with a chemical on it to stop the bleeding. This is pushed into the nostril to seal the area. If this is not possible, they might pack your nose with ribbon gauze or sponge, to stop the bleeding. You may need to stay in hospital for a day or two. When your nosebleed stops, a doctor may prescribe an antiseptic cream to use inside your nose. This stops crusting, or scabs forming. Check the cream's ingredients first, as it may not be suitable if you have a peanut or soya allergy.
Prevention
Don't pick nose; blow gently; use vaseline if dry; humidifier.
When to see a doctor
Go to A&E if: >10-15 mins; swallowed lots of blood; feeling faint; taking blood thinners.