Nosebleeds can take place at the most inconvenient times, like during meetings or at social gatherings, and if that happens frequently, it can be not only inconvenient, it can cause you frustration and worry. For many people, the abrupt onset of a nosebleed can be alarming, particularly when there’s no obvious answer as to why it’s occurring. You may wonder what’s causing and how to prevent your nosebleeds if you have them. Let’s explore some potential reasons why your nose keeps bleeding, and when it’s time to get help from an ENT specialist.
What are the common causes of recurring nosebleeds?
While intermittent nosebleeds are rather common, particularly during cold or dry weather, persistent or frequent episodes can suggest underlying issues. Below are some of the most common causes that might explain why your nose is bleeding more often than you’d like.
Dry or heated air
Dry air, particularly in the winter months or in heated indoor spaces, can dry out the sensitive lining inside your nostrils. This dryness causes the blood vessels in your nasal passages to crack or break, leading to nosebleeds. A basic solution to this issue is to make use of a humidifier in your house or office.
Allergens and irritants
Your nose will be more likely to bleed if it becomes inflamed by exposure to irritants including strong odors, dust, pollution, or smoke. The risk of nosebleeds can be further exacerbated if you’re allergic to substances including mold, pet dander, or pollen which can cause your nose to become swollen. You can prevent this type of nosebleed by steering clear of allergens and using antihistamines and nasal sprays.
Nasal polyps
Nosebleeds can sometimes be the result of non-cancerous growths that develop on the sinuses or nasal passages called nasal polyps. These polyps can interfere with airflow and lead to irritation or bleeding. Medical intervention may be needed if you choose to ignore these polyps. Your ENT can suggest the appropriate course of treatment after examining your nasal passage. Treatment could include the use of medication or possibly polyp removal surgery.
Injury or trauma
Nosebleeds can be the result of physical trauma that harms the blood vessels in your nose as a result of rubbing or picking your nose or even blowing your nose too forcefully. Try not to blow your nose too vigorously and avoid scratching or picking your nose in order to avoid additional injury.
High blood pressure
The probability of having a nosebleed is elevated by high blood pressure (hypertension) which can weaken the blood vessels in the nasal passages. The likelihood of blood pressure-related nosebleeds can be decreased by keeping your blood pressure in check with a healthy diet, lifestyle changes, exercise, and if prescribed, medication.
Blood clotting disorders
Certain medical conditions that affect your blood’s ability to clot, including hemophilia or vitamin K deficiency, can contribute to frequent nosebleeds. Getting your health assessed by a doctor is essential if you suspect that a clotting disorder is causing nosebleeds. Treatment might include medication to manage the condition and decrease bleeding episodes.
Important reasons to seek medical assistance for recurring nosebleeds
Most of the time nosebleeds are nothing to worry about, but if they occur frequently, nosebleeds could signal an underlying medical problem. If you’re experiencing frequent nosebleeds, here are some significant reasons to go see an ENT specialist:
Accurately diagnosing nose bleeds
The cause of your nosebleed can be accurately determined after we carry out a thorough assessment. This might involve a physical exam, a review of your medical history, and possibly additional tests, like blood work or imaging, to rule out other conditions such as clotting conditions or anatomical problems.
Individualized treatment
Your doctor will help you put together a treatment strategy after they determine the cause of your nose bleeds. This could entail addressing the root cause, such as treating allergies, using medications to control nasal inflammation, or in some circumstances, performing a procedure like cauterization to seal the blood vessels responsible for the bleeding.
Preventative strategies
We can provide practical advice to avoid future nosebleeds, including utilizing saline sprays to moisturize your nasal passages, avoiding irritants like smoke or potent chemicals, and implementing strategies to manage allergies or high blood pressure. Your risk of frequent nosebleeds can be substantially decreased with lifestyle modifications.
Ongoing monitoring
If your nosebleeds are related to a medical condition, your ENT specialist will provide ongoing monitoring and alter your treatment as required. Root conditions can be well-managed and you will have fewer nose bleeds by going to regular follow-up visits.
Peace of mind
Consulting with us can provide reassurance that your nosebleeds are being properly addressed.
It’s always a good idea to get a professional to assess your situation even if your nose bleeds turn out not to be serious. You can rest easy knowing that your condition is being managed and that there are measures you can take to steer clear of future nosebleeds.
Get the assistance you need
Nosebleeds, while unpleasant, are usually not cause for concern. However, it’s important to get to the bottom of the problem if you’re dealing with recurring episodes. Our ENT specialists can diagnose and treat nosebleeds whether the cause is as basic as dry air or something more complex like high blood pressure or nasal polyps.
Don’t allow your life to be disrupted by regular nose bleeds. If you’re sick of dealing with this continual problem, contact us today, we can provide individualized care and help you stop those nosebleeds for good.