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Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds Overview

Nosebleeds can be dramatic and frightening. Fortunately, most nosebleeds are not serious and usually can be managed at home, although sometimes medical intervention may be necessary. Nosebleeds (epistaxis) are categorized based on where they originate, and are described as either anterior (originating from the front of the nose) or posterior (originating from the back of the nose).

  • Anterior nosebleeds make up more than 90% of all nosebleeds. The bleeding usually originates from a blood vessel on the nasal septum. Anterior nosebleeds are usually easy to control, either by measures that can be performed at home or by a doctor.
  • Posterior nosebleeds are much less common than anterior nosebleeds. They tend to occur more often in elderly people. The bleeding usually originates from an artery in the back part of the nose. These nosebleeds are more complicated and usually require admission to the hospital and management by an otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat specialist).

One out of every seven people will develop a nosebleed at some time in their lives. Nosebleeds tend to occur more often during winter months and in dry, cold climates. They can occur at any age, but are most common in children aged 2-10 years and adults aged 50-80 years. For unknown reasons, nosebleeds most commonly occur in the morning hours.



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Nosebleeds

What are allergies?

An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system responds to a foreign substance in an abnormal fashion. The immune system normally protects the body from harmful agents like bacteria and toxins. The body's abnormal response to a harmless substance (called an allergen) is called a hypersensitivity, or an allergic reaction. Generally, these reactions are due to interactions between the allergen and the family of proteins, IgE, resulting in activation of cells in the body called mast cells and basophils.

What causes allergies?

Many substances in the environment can become allergens, but only in genetically susceptible persons. Dust mites, animal hair or danders, pollens, medications, foods, and insect venoms are examples of allergens. Approximately 20% of the US population is potentially allergic.

Reactions may be in the nose (hay fever), eyes (conjunctivitis), chest (asthma), or it can be systemic (anaphylaxis), me...

Read the Allergy and Hay Fever Medications article »



Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Epistaxis »

Epistaxis, or bleeding from the nose, is common in its frequency and varied in its manifestation.

Read More on eMedicine »

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