Epistaxis (from Greek ἐπιστάζω (epistazo) bleeding from the nose: ἐπί (epi) - "above", "more than" + στάζω (Stazo) - "Drip" [the nose]) or a nosebleed is relatively common occurrence of hemorrhage from the nose, usually noticed when blood is filtered through the nostrils. There are two types: anterior (most common) and posterior (less common, more likely to require medical attention). Sometimes in more severe cases, blood can get through the nasolacrimal duct and out of the eye. Fresh blood and blood clots can also flow to the stomach and cause nausea and vomiting. It is rarely fatal, representing only 4 of the 2.4 million deaths in the U.S. in 1999How to stop the common nosebleed?
Most people who develop nosebleeds can handle the problem without the need of a physician if you follow the first aid advice below:
Pinch all the soft tissues of the nose between your thumb and index finger.
Press firmly toward the face - compressing the tight parts of the nose into the bones of the face.
Lean slightly forward with the head tilted forward. Leaning back or tilt your head back lets the blood flow to the sinuses and throat and may cause nausea or inhalation of blood.
Hold the nose for at least five minutes. Repeat as necessary until the nose has stopped bleeding.
Sit quietly, keeping the head above the heart level. Do not lie or put your head between your legs.
Apply ice (wrapped in a towel) on the nose and cheeks.
For what cause nosebleeds?
The nose is a part of the body rich in blood vessels (vascular) and placed in a vulnerable position as it stands in the face. As a result, trauma to the face and nasal injuries can cause bleeding. The bleeding may be profuse, or simply a minor complication. Nosebleeds can occur spontaneously when the nasal membranes dry out and crack. This is common in dry climates or during winter months when the air is dry and warm from household heaters. People are more susceptible to nosebleeds if you are taking medications that prevent normal blood clotting warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin or anti-inflammatory drug]. In this situation, even minor trauma can result in significant bleeding.
The incidence of nosebleeds is higher during the colder winter months when respiratory infections are more frequent, and the temperature and humidity fluctuate dramatically. In addition, changes in external environment of bitter cold a warm, dry results, the house is heated in the drying and changes in the nose making it more susceptible to bleeding. Nosebleeds are also produced in hot, dry climates with low humidity, or when a change in seasons. The following factors predispose people to nosebleeds:
Infection
Trauma, including self-induced nose picking, especially in children
Allergic rhinitis and nonallergic
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
The use of blood thinning drugs
Alcohol abuse
Less common causes include tumors and inherited bleeding problems