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The PHARMACIST talks about …

Nose Bleeds

A nosebleed is abnormal bleeding from the nose. Nosebleeds can be caused by various reasons including an infection or a physical injury.

Nosebleeds can appear at any age for no apparent reason. Bleeding can occur from one or both nostrils.

Colds, sinus problems, injury, sneezing or blood disorders can be the causes. Infections and foreign objects may be reasons as well. Usually the bleeding stops within an hour. In most cases it is a simple break in one of the blood vessels in the nose which occurs naturally or because of an injury.

How to stop Nosebleeds

To help stop the bleeding the first step is to pinch the nostrils together for 5 to 10 minutes. If this is not effective the area of the nose which is causing the bleeding should be identified.

Sometimes the bleeding can be very serious indeed. There is a heavy flow of blood which will not seem to stop.

A doctor must be consulted immediately particularly if all the first- aid treatment has had no effect.

Any nose bleeder who has a recurrent problem must see a doctor for a complete examination. There may be a more serious aliment e.g. high blood pressure (hypertension) or arteriosclerosis, particularly if the patient is middle- aged or elderly.

First Aid Hints

For a simple nosebleed one solution is to pinch the nose with the patient sitting upright in a chair. Squeeze the nose with the thumb and forefinger. The head should be tilted forward to minimize the swallowing of blood. Keep the pressure on for some 15 minutes. Breathe through the mouth.

An ice pack on the bridge of the nose can help. If the bleeding continues, cotton wool may have to be inserted into the nostrils and the pressure reapplied.

Put a cold pack on the back of the neck. This may cause a reflex constriction of the blood vessels of the nose. Your pharmacy stocks cold packs.

If bleeding persists for a long period of time e.g. half an hour, see your doctor who may cauterize the bleeding vein.

It is important to include iron rich foods e.g. lean red meat, chicken, egg yolks and leafy vegetables for folic acid to replenish the blood supply.

Ask your nearest Healthpoint Group pharmacist for advice.

Please Note: The advice on this website is to be used as an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace advice from your qualified GP or medical practitioner. Please ensure that you speak to them in relation to all of your health issues.