Causes of Nosebleeds (Epistaxis) image

Causes of Nosebleeds (Epistaxis)

Opr. Dr. Mehmet ÖZGENÇ -

Nosebleeds can range from simple causes to serious health issues.

  1. Trauma: Nose injury, nose picking, nasal surgeries.
  2. Dry air and irritation: Drying of the mucous membranes, especially in cold and dry weather.
  3. Infections: Sinusitis, upper respiratory infections.
  4. Bleeding disorders: Hemophilia, thrombocytopenia.
  5. Medications: Blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin), improper use of nasal sprays.
  6. High blood pressure: Strain on blood vessels.
  7. Tumors: Benign or malignant masses in the nose or sinuses.
  8. Chemical exposure: Irritating substances.
  9. Allergies: Sensitivity of nasal mucosa due to allergic rhinitis.
  10. Structural abnormalities: Deviated nasal septum.


Diagnosis Methods

To diagnose the cause of nosebleeds, the following methods are used:

  1. Anamnesis (Patient history): Inquiry into the start time, frequency, any trauma, or medication use.
  2. Physical examination: Identification of the bleeding site via endoscopic examination of the nasal and nasopharyngeal areas.
  3. Laboratory tests:
  • Blood tests (CBC, PT, INR, aPTT) if bleeding disorders are suspected.
  1. Imaging: If necessary, detailed imaging of the nose and sinuses through CT or MRI scans.


Treatment Methods

Treatment for nosebleeds varies depending on the cause:

First Aid:

  • The patient should sit upright and lean slightly forward. The nostrils are pressed together between the thumb and index finger for 10-15 minutes.


Medical intervention:

  • If the bleeding does not stop, nasal packing may be applied.
  • Cauterization: Burning of the bleeding vessel.


Medication:

  • Adjustments in blood-thinning medications.
  • Appropriate medications if allergies or infections are present (antihistamines, antibiotics).
  • Key terms: antihistamine, antibiotic, blood thinner adjustment.


Surgical intervention:

  • Surgery may be necessary if there are tumors or structural issues.


Preventive measures:

  • Use of humidifiers to prevent dry air.
  • Avoidance of habits that may irritate the nose.


With this information, nosebleeds are generally manageable and treatable. However, persistent or severe nosebleeds may indicate an underlying serious condition, and medical attention should be sought.