Mechanism of nosebleeds
Inside the nasal cavity is a rich network of blood vessels that are responsible for humidifying and heating the inhaled air. Nasal bleeding usually begins when one of these vessels is damaged.
Causes of nosebleeds
Nosebleeds can result from a variety of causes, which can be divided into local and general.
Local causes
- Injury: The simplest activities, such as picking the nose or hitting it, can damage the delicate nasal mucosa, leading to bleeding.
- Dryness of the mucous membrane: Dry air, especially in the winter months, can cause blood vessels in the nose to dry out and burst.
- Inflammatory conditions: Sinusitis or acute inflammation of the upper respiratory tract can contribute to nosebleeds.
- Atrophic rhinitis: Overuse of nasal drops or intake of substances such as cocaine can lead to mucosal atrophy.
- Diseases with granuloma formation: tuberculosis, Wegener’s granulomatosis, or syphilis.
- Tumors: Tumors of the nasal cavities, sinuses, and nasopharynx can also cause bleeding.
General causes
- Cardiovascular diseases: Hypertension, vascular atherosclerosis, chronic circulatory insufficiency may increase the risk of nosebleeds.
- Congenital hemorrhagic diathesis: Such as thrombocytopenia or hemophilia.
- Acquired blood clotting disorders: Caused by drugs (e.g., heparin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or cachexia.
- Infectious diseases: infectious mononucleosis, measles, typhoid fever.
- Uremia and liver failure: May also affect bleeding tendency.
How to deal with nosebleeds?
Nose bleeding symptoms. If you have a nosebleed, stay calm and assume a sitting position, leaning forward slightly. Compressing the wings of the nose for about 10 minutes often helps stop the bleeding. It is important not to swallow the blood, but to spit it out. Applying cold compresses to the neck and root of the nose can also help.
Treatment of nosebleeds
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the bleeding. In some cases, medical intervention may be necessary, especially if the bleeding is profuse or does not stop with home methods. The doctor may use a variety of methods, including electrical coagulation, chemical cauterization, anterior or posterior tamponade and, in extreme cases, even surgical closure of the vessels.
Summary
Nosebleeds can be worrisome, but are usually not a serious health problem. It is important to know its potential causes and respond appropriately if it occurs. On the other hand, in cases of severe bleeding or when it is a symptom of other health problems, it is important to consult a doctor.
