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February 8, 2012

Nosebleed
(Epistaxis)

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Nosebleed Treatment

What Is the Treatment for A Common Nosebleed?

Most people who develop nose bleeding can handle the problem without the need of a physician if they follow the first aid recommendations below:

  1. Pinch all the soft parts of the nose together between your thumb and index finger.

  2. Press firmly toward the face - compressing the pinched parts of the nose against the bones of the face.

  3. Lean forward slightly with the head tilted forward. Leaning back or tilting the head back allows the blood to run back into your sinuses and throat and can cause gagging or inhaling the blood.

  4. Hold the nose for at least five minutes. Repeat as necessary until the nose has stopped bleeding.

Read the rest of the nosebleed treatment information »

Why causes nosebleeds?

The nose is a part of the body rich in blood vessels (vascular) and is situated in a vulnerable position as it protrudes on the face. As a result, trauma to the face can cause nasal injury and bleeding. The bleeding may be profuse, or simply a minor complication. Nosebleeds can occur spontaneously when the nasal membranes dry out and crack. This is common in dry climates, or during the winter months when the air is dry and warm from household heaters. People are more susceptible to a bloody nose if they are taking medications which prevent normal blood clotting warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, or any anti-inflammatory medication]. In this situation, even a minor trauma could result in significant bleeding.

The incidence of nosebleeds is higher during the colder winter months when upper respiratory infections are more frequent, and the temperature and humidity fluctuate more dramatically. In addition, changes from a bitter cold outside environment to a warm, dry, heated home results in drying and changes in the nose which will make it more susceptible to bleeding. Nosebleeds also occur in hot dry climates with low humidity, or when there is a change in the seasons. The following factors predispose people to nosebleeds:



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Nosebleed

What is asthma?

Asthma is a disorder of the lungs that causes the airways to:

  • Swell (or become inflamed), specifically in the airway linings
  • Produce large amounts of mucus that is thicker than normal
  • Become more narrow because of muscle contractions surrounding the airways

The symptoms of asthma include:

  • Feeling short of breath
  • Frequent coughing, especially at night
  • Wheezing (a whistling noise during breathing)
  • Difficulty breathing

What is adult-onset asthma?

When a doctor makes a diagnosis of asthma in people older than 20, it is known as adult-onset asthma.

Among those who may be more likely to get adult-onset asthma are:

  • Women who are having hormonal changes, such as those who are pregnant or who are experiencing menopause/...

Read the Adult-Onset Asthma article »







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