Nosebleed is a discharge of blood from the nose. Most nosebleeds result from minor irritations of the tissue that lines the lower nasal passages. But nosebleeds may also occur as a symptom of a serious illness or as the result of a head or neck injury. The medical term for nosebleed is epistaxis.
The nasal passages are lined with a thin, moist tissue called mucous membrane. Many small vessels carry blood close to the membrane’s surface. If the membrane becomes dry, even slight knocks or scratches can break the blood vessels. This type of nosebleed commonly occurs in the winter, when nasal tissues become irritated by dry, cool air and by colds and influenza.
Minor nosebleeds frequently result from irritations of the mucous membrane that covers the nasal septum, the structure that separates the two nostrils. Some people have a deviated septum, which curves into one of the two nostril chambers. A deviated septum lies directly in the path of air entering the nose, and therefore is likely to become dried and to bleed if irritated.
To stop a minor nosebleed, sit down and lean forward, with your chin toward your chest. Then, pinch your nostrils together for about 10 minutes, or until the bleeding stops. If the nosebleed does not stop after using these measures, seek medical attention.
Severe nosebleeds may be a symptom of a blood-clotting disorder, leukemia, or the rupture of a large blood vessel at the back of the nose. Heavy bleeding from the nose may be life-threatening and thus requires emergency medical care. If a head or neck injury is suspected, do not move the person. Prevent the head and neck from moving by stabilizing them with your hands. Have someone call for an ambulance immediately.
