A nosebleed typically occurs after an impact or strike to the nose and might be linked with a fracture. Nevertheless, the injury can occur after minor injuries or fully spontaneous.
What are the indications?
- Bleeding in either one or both nostrils
- The flow of blood can range from light to heavy that can last for a few seconds to 10 minutes or longer
- If blood reaches the throat, it can cause nausea.
Possible causes of a nosebleed
A nosebleed is typically brought about by an impact or strike to the nose that results to the rupture of one or several small-sized blood vessels in the nose. Remember that sustaining a moderate to hard impact requires assessment for a possible fracture and to ensure that the airways are not involved.
Picking the nose or blowing too hard can result to damage to the delicate blood vessels of the nasal walls which leads to minor bleeding. In some cases, a nosebleed can occur spontaneously without any trauma to the face. Sinusitis, common cold, flu, hay fever and high altitudes are also contributing factors.
Management
When caring for a nosebleed, you should pinch the nose right beneath the bony region. The individual should sit down and lean forward so that the blood will not flow down the throat. Instruct the individual to breathe via the mouth.
Continue to pinch the nose for up to 20 minutes and only check for bleeding every 5 minutes. In case the bleeding is significant or does not stop after 20 minutes, seek medical attention right away.
After a nosebleed, instruct the individual to avoid blowing too hard or move the head quickly for up to 12 hours after the bleeding ceases. In case they occur frequently without any trauma to the nose, a doctor must be consulted.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on a nosebleed is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage bleeding issues including a nosebleed by taking a standard first aid course with Red Deer First Aid.