How to Prevent Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are a common problem, particularly in small children, elderly people and pregnant women. They can also occur in people who regularly take aspirin or anticoagulants, or who have blood clotting disorders. Nosebleeds can be a little unsettling but in the majority of cases, they aren’t a sign of anything serious. There are several things you can do to prevent nosebleeds. If a nosebleed does occur, then they’re usually treatable at home. If you have frequent nosebleeds, however, it’s advisable to speak to ENT doctors for help and advice, such as the team at Vero ENT Associates.

Common causes of nosebleeds

The inside of your nose is delicate and full of tiny blood vessels. These can become damaged fairly easily by a number of causes and might start to bleed. Any foreign objects in the nose could cause nosebleeds and this is often the case with children. Picking your nose with long fingernails especially can damage these tiny blood vessels as well. Sometimes even blowing your nose very hard can cause nosebleeds. A change in temperature or humidity can also cause nosebleeds as it could make the inside of your nose dry out. In fact, dry air is a very common cause of nosebleeds and can be the result of heating in winter or otherwise a hot, low-humidity climate. High altitudes could even be the culprit as well. Injuries or nasal surgery might also result in nosebleeds. Certain medications or even allergies can cause nosebleeds and if this is the case it’s a good idea to contact a clinic with specialist ENT doctors.

How to prevent nosebleeds

Although nosebleeds are common and can occur easily in some people, there are ways you can prevent them. Avoid picking your nose, and inserting anything into your nostrils. Trim your fingernails so if you do unconsciously pick your nose, it’ll be less likely to cause nosebleeds. Keep an eye on children who like to put things in their nose, as this is a common cause. Certain small children have the bad habit of doing this, so it might be an idea to teach them to stop. Try to avoid blowing your nose too hard and too often. Don’t overdo it with nasal decongestants either and allows follow the instructions on the packet. Keep your home properly humidified, to prevent dry air from causing the inside of your nose to dry and crack. You might want to minimize the time you leave the heat on in winter and be sure to fully ventilate your home. ENT doctors can give you more advice on how to prevent nosebleeds. If you have them regularly or your nosebleeds go on for longer than twenty minutes, speak to an ear, nose and throat specialist in order to give you peace of mind. Vero ENT Associates can provide plenty of solutions and options to help you prevent, treat and understand the cause of your nosebleeds.

How to stop nosebleeds

It’s important to stay calm if you or somebody you’re with has a nosebleed. Stress or nerves can cause an adrenaline rush which could result in the nosebleed lasting for longer. Even though you’re trying to relax it’s important to stay upright. Sit or stand up and don’t lie down during a nosebleed. Tilt your head forward slightly to prevent the blood from draining down the back of your throat. Try to breathe through your mouth. Now that you’re in the right position, pinch your using your index finger and thumb. Pinch the soft spot just above your nostrils on the bridge of your nose. Some nasal sprays might also help, so put a few drops in the side of your nose that’s bleeding. Always speak to ENT doctors if you’re unsure about nasal sprays. An ice pack on the bridge of your nose might also help slow the bleeding. Nosebleeds tend to last for 10-15 minutes, but they might even go on for longer, so if it takes a little while to stop don’t worry. If your nosebleeds continue for thirty minutes, seek medical attention. The majority of the time nosebleeds can be prevented and treated at home, but ENT doctors can give you the advice you need if your nosebleeds are frequent and you have other symptoms. ENT doctors are specialized in the prevention and treatment of nosebleeds. You can be referred by your family doctor. If you would like to learn more about how to prevent nosebleeds and Vero ENT Associates, contact us today at (772) 408-9556.