Causes and Prevention of Frequent Nosebleeds

By AOO | ENT Specialists of the Rockies on February 21, 2018 under Nosebleed Treatment, Nosebleeds

Causes and Prevention of Frequent Nosebleeds

If you’re prone to nosebleeds, you might notice they occur more frequently in the winter months when the air is cold and dry. Constantly worrying about when a nosebleed is going to occur can really begin to affect your daily life. This winter put an end to your nosebleed anxiety by understanding how to stop one as soon as it occurs and what you can do to prevent future ones.

What Causes Nosebleeds?

Your nose membrane needs humidity from the air to stay moisturized. Just like the skin on your hands might crack due to cold winter air, your nasal membrane can too! This often results in a nosebleed triggered by a sneeze or blowing your nose. The problem can be worsened if you have taken a blood thinner or steroid medication.

How to Stop a Nosebleed

When a nosebleed occurs, you’ll want it to be over as soon as possible. Although your first reaction might be to tilt your head back to contain the blood, this can result in blood going to the esophagus and stomach, which can lead to vomiting. Instead, tilt your head forward to let the blood drain out of your nose, not back into it. While you’re doing this, pinch the soft part of your nose between your thumb and finger, breathing in and out through your mouth. Firmly pressing and holding this position for about five minutes will help compress the nose and stop the bleeding. Make sure you keep your head elevated, not bent over or lying down. After this, you can apply ice to help the blood clot and prevent the bleeding from reoccurring.

How can Nosebleeds be Prevented?

Knowing how to stop a nosebleed is useful, but you’d probably rather prevent it from occurring in the first place! To do this, you’ll need to keep the nose membrane moisturized to avoid cracking. You might try using a humidifier indoors, or covering your nose with a scarf when out in the winter cold. If your nosebleeds are difficult to control or seem more severe than usual, you should consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist to receive further treatment.

Contact Associates of Otolaryngology for your appointment with one of our certified ENT doctors in Denver or Lone Tree and start treating your frequent nosebleeds as soon as possible for relief.