Control of Nosebleeds 

Epistaxis is the medical term for a nosebleed. It occurs when the blood vessels in the nose rupture and bleed. Nosebleeds can be categorized into two types:

Anterior nosebleeds

The most common type originates from blood vessels in the front of the nose. Usually, the bleeding can be stopped with simple home remedies and pressure applied to the nostrils. Frequent hydration with saline and Vaseline is recommended.

Posterior nosebleeds

Less common but more severe. These occur from blood vessels originating from within the nose. These may require more urgent medical attention, as they can be harder to control and may lead to more significant blood loss.

Risk Factors

• Dry air
• Nasal irritation, such as picking the nose
• Allergies
• Trauma
• Underlying health conditions that affect blood clotting.
• Blood thinners – Aspirin, Plavix, Coumadin, Eliquis, herbal supplements, and more. 

Treatment

In-office: If a source of bleeding is identified, an option for in-office cauterization exists. We use a variety of numbing medications and then seal the exposed blood vessel. There are chemicals and other tools that can be used to seal the vessel.

Surgery: If we cannot identify the source of bleeding or the blood vessel is very large, your Century physician may recommend examination and cauterization in the operating room. Some studies show that prophylactically cauterizing a larger vessel called the sphenopalatine artery can significantly reduce or stop the frequency and severity of nosebleeds.

Endoscopic Sphenopalatine Artery Ligation

Conclusion

Most nosebleeds are not serious and can be managed at home with conservative treatment. However, if nosebleeds are frequent, severe, prolonged or accompanied by other symptoms, it is essential to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.