Nose Bleeding

Nose Bleeding services offered in Hollywood, FL

Nosebleeds are common and often minor, but frequent, heavy, or difficult-to-stop bleeding requires medical evaluation. At the Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida in Hollywood, Florida, Craig Shapiro, DO, can investigate possible causes of recurrent nose bleeding and determine whether you need treatment. For prompt, expert diagnosis of problematic nosebleeds, call the Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida to arrange an ENT evaluation or schedule a consultation online today.

Nose Bleeding Q & A

Why do nosebleeds happen?

The nasal lining contains many small blood vessels close to the surface, making them vulnerable to irritation or injury. A nosebleed (epistaxis) occurs when a blood vessel inside the nose breaks.

Common triggers and contributing factors include:

Dry air
Nose picking
Forceful nose blowing
Colds and sinus infections
Allergic rhinitis
Nasal sprays used incorrectly or excessively
Injury to the nose
A deviated septum
Blood-thinning medications
High blood pressure

Less commonly, recurrent nosebleeds may relate to a bleeding disorder, abnormal blood vessels, nasal growths, or other underlying conditions.

Most nose bleeding begins toward the front of the nasal septum and is relatively easy to control. Bleeding originating farther back in the nasal cavity can be heavier and may require prompt medical treatment.

What should I do when my nose starts bleeding?

Sit upright and lean slightly forward rather than tilting your head backward. Pinch the soft part of your nose firmly between your thumb and finger and maintain steady pressure for about 10-15 minutes without repeatedly checking whether the bleeding has stopped.

Breathing through your mouth while applying pressure can help. Avoid blowing or picking your nose immediately afterward because this may disturb the clot and restart the bleeding.

When should I see an ENT specialist for recurrent nose bleeding?

An ENT evaluation may be appropriate when nosebleeds happen frequently, become increasingly severe, consistently occur from the same nostril, or are difficult to stop.

Dr. Shapiro can examine your nasal passages for irritated blood vessels, crusting, inflammation, structural problems, or other abnormalities. Nasal endoscopy can help identify bleeding originating deeper inside the nose.

Your evaluation may also include a review of medications and medical conditions that could increase the likelihood of bleeding.

How are frequent nosebleeds treated?

Treatment depends on the source and cause of the nose bleeding. Moisturizing the nasal lining with saline products or other recommended measures may reduce nosebleeds caused by dryness and irritation.

If a specific blood vessel repeatedly bleeds, chemical or electrical cautery can seal it. More substantial bleeding may require nasal packing or another procedure to control it. Treatment may also address allergies, inflammation, infection, structural abnormalities, or other contributing problems.

Repeated nosebleeds don't always indicate a serious condition, but identifying the cause helps prevent further episodes. Contact the Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida by phone or request an appointment online today.