Nosebleeds
What are the causes of nosebleeds?
- Medications that slow blood clotting (e.g. Warfarin, aspirin or anti-inflammatories)
- Low humidity conditions
- Infections
- Trauma
- Rhinitis
- Excessive use of alcohol
- High blood pressure
- Cancer
How are nosebleeds alleviated?
Home treatment:
Most nosebleeds can be controlled without Dr. Lieberman’s intervention. To stop a nosebleed, using the thumb and index finger, pinch the soft part of the nose closed and pressed firmly toward the face while leaning forward. If you lean back, blood is more likely to run through the sinuses and down the throat, causing gagging. Hold the nose for at least 10 minutes and sit with the head higher than the heart. If the bleeding continues, pinch the nose again for an additional 10 minutes.
Once the bleeding has stopped, do not blow your nose or put anything in it for 24 hours. Avoid straining during bowel movements, bending down to lift anything, smoking or drinking hot liquids, again for a day. Lubricating the nose with a nasal saline spray or Ponaris oil can help reduce the risk of another nosebleed.
Professional intervention
Nosebleeds can be life threatening and should not be taken lightly. It is important to see Dr. Lieberman if the bleeding cannot be controlled or if you feel weak or faint. Dr. Lieberman will attempt to identify the source of the bleed and cauterize the area to end the problem. In certain cases, it is necessary to firmly pack the nose with gauze to maintain constant pressure. There are rare instances when surgery is required and endoscopically, the bleeding is stopped by electro cauterization.
