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February 10, 2012

Nosebleed (cont.)

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Nosebleed At A Glance

  • Nosebleeds are common due to the location of the nose on the face, and the large amount of blood vessels in the nose.

  • The most common cause of nosebleeds are drying of the nasal membranes and nose picking (digital trauma) and this can be prevented with proper lubrication of the nasal passages and not picking the nose.

  • Most nosebleeds can be stopped at home.

  • Consult a doctor for a nosebleed if bleeding cannot be stopped, there is a large amount of blood lost, or you feel weak or faint.

  • A doctor may use nasal packs to stop nosebleeds when conservative measures fail.

  • Do not take aspirin or other blood thinning products when you get a nosebleed (if they are doctor-prescribed, consult your doctor before stopping any medication).

REFERENCE: Fauci, Anthony S., et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Professional, 2008.


Last Editorial Review: 10/1/2010


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