Frequent nosebleeds - more than just a minor nuisance.
If you've recently experienced a string of nosebleeds, you're probably considering this as an inconvenience rather than a cause for concern. However, according to Dr Patricia Loftus, an otolaryngologist at the University of California, San Francisco, frequent nosebleeds can sometimes be a sign of something more serious.
The Basics of Nosebleeds
A nosebleed is medically known as epistaxis and comes in two main forms: anterior and posterior. Approximately 90% of these occur in the area between your nostrils, called Kiesselbach's plexus, where there are numerous blood vessels that can burst open due to dry air or minor trauma, leading to bleeding.
Posterior nosebleeds, on the other hand, are less common but more serious and often triggered by larger blood vessels bursting. These can be a significant cause for concern as they may lead to swallowing large amounts of blood, which can be hazardous to one's health.
Recognizing Symptoms
While most nosebleeds are mild, some can indicate underlying conditions that require medical attention. If you're experiencing frequent nosebleeds, there could be several reasons for this. These include dry air, particularly during the winter months, as well as digital manipulation such as picking your nose or engaging in physical activities that increase pressure on the face.
Inflammation from allergies or viral infections can also contribute to this issue. Medications and supplements, including prescription blood thinners and certain herbal supplements, may also be a contributing factor.
Seeking Medical Attention
While some nosebleeds can be easily treated at home, frequent or severe nosebleeds should be addressed by a medical professional. If you're experiencing persistent or recurring nosebleeds that disrupt your daily life, it's essential to consult with a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.
Symptoms of more serious issues may include bleeding every day without an apparent cause, loss of nasal function on one side, facial pain or pressure, unilateral ear pain, numbness, vision changes, or difficulty breathing through the nose.
Treatment
In many cases, nosebleeds can be treated with minor procedures at home. However, if you experience persistent or severe bleeding that cannot be controlled by over-the-counter treatments, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
When visiting a doctor, expect a thorough examination of your nasal cavity and possibly cauterization of the affected area to stop the bleeding. Blood tests may also be conducted to check for any underlying conditions such as anemia or clotting disorders.
While nosebleeds can often be easily treated, if you've recently experienced frequent or recurring nosebleeds, it's crucial to take this seriously and seek medical attention.
If you've recently experienced a string of nosebleeds, you're probably considering this as an inconvenience rather than a cause for concern. However, according to Dr Patricia Loftus, an otolaryngologist at the University of California, San Francisco, frequent nosebleeds can sometimes be a sign of something more serious.
The Basics of Nosebleeds
A nosebleed is medically known as epistaxis and comes in two main forms: anterior and posterior. Approximately 90% of these occur in the area between your nostrils, called Kiesselbach's plexus, where there are numerous blood vessels that can burst open due to dry air or minor trauma, leading to bleeding.
Posterior nosebleeds, on the other hand, are less common but more serious and often triggered by larger blood vessels bursting. These can be a significant cause for concern as they may lead to swallowing large amounts of blood, which can be hazardous to one's health.
Recognizing Symptoms
While most nosebleeds are mild, some can indicate underlying conditions that require medical attention. If you're experiencing frequent nosebleeds, there could be several reasons for this. These include dry air, particularly during the winter months, as well as digital manipulation such as picking your nose or engaging in physical activities that increase pressure on the face.
Inflammation from allergies or viral infections can also contribute to this issue. Medications and supplements, including prescription blood thinners and certain herbal supplements, may also be a contributing factor.
Seeking Medical Attention
While some nosebleeds can be easily treated at home, frequent or severe nosebleeds should be addressed by a medical professional. If you're experiencing persistent or recurring nosebleeds that disrupt your daily life, it's essential to consult with a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.
Symptoms of more serious issues may include bleeding every day without an apparent cause, loss of nasal function on one side, facial pain or pressure, unilateral ear pain, numbness, vision changes, or difficulty breathing through the nose.
Treatment
In many cases, nosebleeds can be treated with minor procedures at home. However, if you experience persistent or severe bleeding that cannot be controlled by over-the-counter treatments, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
When visiting a doctor, expect a thorough examination of your nasal cavity and possibly cauterization of the affected area to stop the bleeding. Blood tests may also be conducted to check for any underlying conditions such as anemia or clotting disorders.
While nosebleeds can often be easily treated, if you've recently experienced frequent or recurring nosebleeds, it's crucial to take this seriously and seek medical attention.