Bloody Nose, Epistaxis, Nosebleed
Symptoms & Signs:
A nosebleed is a condition in which the membranes inside the nose are irritated or injured and begin to bleed.
Anyone can get a nosebleed. It is common in people who take drugs that affect the blood’s clotting ability, and occurs more often in men than in women. It is not uncommon for children to have nosebleeds.
Causes
Nosebleeds are most often caused by irritation of the mucous membranes in the nose. The cold, dry winter air; repeated, violent sneezing or nose blowing due to infection or allergies; or repeatedly picking the nose are common sources of irritation. Nosebleeds can also be caused by trauma to the nose, head, or facial area; by conditions such as leukemia, high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, a bleeding disorder, or vitamin K deficiency; or by using drugs that are inhaled through the nose, such as cocaine. In most cases, the blood comes from the front, or anterior, part of the nose, called the nasal septum, which is rich in tiny blood vessels. Nosebleeds from the back, or posterior, part of the nose are less common and usually more serious.
Symptoms
Bleeding from the nose can range from light to heavy, and can be from just one or both nostrils. Bleeding from the back of the nose can cause rapid blood loss and is usually indicated by a slow ooze of blood. Other symptoms can include dizziness, nausea, fainting (syncope), anxiety, and respiratory distress.
Content Courtesy : www.hmc.psu.edu
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