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Eye & EarICD-10: R04.0About 60% of people experience a nosebleed at some point; 6% require medical attention

Nosebleed

Also known as: Epistaxis

A nosebleed (epistaxis) is bleeding from the blood vessels inside the nose, most commonly from the anterior septum area known as Kiesselbach's plexus. Nosebleeds are very common and usually not serious, often resulting from dry air, nose picking, or minor trauma. Posterior nosebleeds originating from deeper in the nasal cavity are less common but may require medical intervention.

Symptoms

Bleeding from one or both nostrils
Blood dripping down the back of the throat
Sensation of fluid in the back of the nose
Frequent swallowing of blood
Lightheadedness if blood loss is significant

Causes

  • Dry air and low humidity causing nasal membrane drying
  • Nose picking or vigorous nose blowing
  • Nasal trauma or injury
  • Upper respiratory infections and allergies
  • Use of blood-thinning medications (aspirin, warfarin)
  • Nasal septal deviation or nasal polyps

Risk Factors

  • Dry climate or heated indoor air during winter
  • Anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication use
  • High blood pressure
  • Blood clotting disorders
  • Frequent nasal decongestant spray use
  • Children aged 2–10 and adults over 50

Diagnosis

  • Visual examination of the nasal cavity with a nasal speculum or endoscope
  • Blood pressure measurement
  • Complete blood count and coagulation studies if recurrent
  • CT scan if structural cause or tumor is suspected

Treatment

  • Lean forward and pinch the soft part of the nose firmly for 10–15 minutes
  • Apply a cold compress to the bridge of the nose
  • Nasal packing (anterior or posterior) for persistent bleeding
  • Cauterization (silver nitrate or electrical) of the bleeding vessel
  • Correction of underlying causes (adjusting blood thinners, treating hypertension)

Prevention

  • Use a humidifier to keep indoor air moist
  • Apply saline nasal spray or petroleum jelly inside the nostrils
  • Avoid picking the nose
  • Use decongestant nasal sprays only as directed and for limited duration

When to See a Doctor

  • Nosebleed lasting more than 20 minutes despite proper first aid
  • Nosebleed following a head injury or facial trauma
  • Frequent, recurrent nosebleeds
  • Nosebleed in someone taking blood thinners or with a bleeding disorder

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Allergic Rhinitis

Respiratory

Hemophilia

Genetic

Sinusitis

Respiratory

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.