Nosebleeds can strike anytime and anywhere which makes them particularly annoying, but usually, they’re nothing more than that. It can be more than a little uncomfortable when a nose bleed happens in a situation such as a first date or family dinner. Typically, those end pretty fast, especially if you use a little direct pressure.
But under normal circumstances, nosebleeds don’t happen that often. So you may feel a little concerned if you are having regular nosebleeds. After all, from the time we’re young kids, we’re conditioned to correlate bleeding with injury. So the feeling that something might be wrong when your nose bleeds frequently is not surprising.
What causes regular nosebleeds?
You may be dealing with frequent nose bleeds for one or more of the following reasons.
Environmental causes: The most prevalent environmental reason for frequent nosebleeds is low humidity. A bloody nose can be the result of irritation caused by dry air.
Behavior: If you consistently and intensely blow your nose it can lead to nosebleeds.
Medication: Frequent nosebleeds can be related to some medication. You should contact us about any medication you’re taking if you experiencing a spike in nosebleeds.
Structural issues: Some people have a nose that has a bit of a different shape. More recurrent nosebleeds can be caused by these congenital issues.
Health conditions: Your body’s ability to clot blood can be restricted by certain medical conditions. This can trigger persisting nosebleeds.
Growths in the sinuses: Your sinus passage can occasionally have growths like polyps or a tumor. Regular nosebleeds can occur when this is the situation.
Colds and allergies: Sometimes, a cold or allergic reaction can really dehydrate those mucus membranes. And this can result in, you guessed it, more frequent nosebleeds.
There are some fairly innocuous items on this list but there are also some very serious ones. So how do you know when you should be concerned or when it’s time to go see your doctor about your nosebleeds?
When to consult your physician about your nosebleeds
First and foremost, it’s never a bad idea to talk to us about your frequent nosebleeds if you’re concerned. Some peace of mind is never a bad thing! As a general rule, you should come see us if:
- You haven’t seen a doctor before your current nosebleeds began.
- They are happening more often, or have become harder to stop.
If necessary, we will help you determine how to stop your nosebleeds and also find their source.
When to get emergency care for your nosebleeds
There are some cases in which persistent nosebleeds can present due to a serious or emergency condition. Emergency care is required if:
- Your nosebleed is the result of or happens directly after trauma and injury.
- More blood than you would expect is coming from your nosebleed. In other words, if the bleeding is alarmingly heavy, head to the emergency room.
- The nosebleed arises in an individual younger than two years old.
- Your nosebleeds are causing you to have difficulty breathing even through your mouth.
- Even after applying pressure for up to 30 minutes, your nose won’t stop bleeding.
- If you are going in for emergency care for a nosebleed, it’s essential that you have someone drive you to the emergency department. Blood loss can hinder your ability to drive safely.
- Getting dizzy or losing consciousness while driving might make your medical condition considerably worse.
Let your nose be your guide
If you’re stressed about your repeated nosebleeds or something doesn’t feel quite right, it’s a smart plan to make an appointment. As a general rule, if your nose bleeds 2-3 times a month, it’s likely something benign, like allergies or dry air. But if your nose is bleeding 4 (or more than 4) times in a week, that could suggest something more severe.