Nosebleeds Causes

Most nosebleeds do not have an easily identifiable cause. However, trauma to the nose is a common cause of nosebleeds. Trauma to the outside of the nose from a blow to the face, or trauma to the inside of the nose from nose picking both often initiate a nosebleed. Local irritation inside the nose from a nasal or sinus infection can also cause nosebleeds.

Less commonly, an underlying disease process or taking certain medications may cause a nosebleed or make it more difficult to control.

• Inability of the blood to clot is most often due to blood-thinning medications such as warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin.
  
  
• Liver disease can also interfere with blood clotting.
  
  
• Abnormal blood vessels in the nose and nasal cancers are rare causes of nosebleeds.
  
  
• High blood pressure may contribute to bleeding but is almost never the only reason for a nosebleed.