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You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Nosebleed
      Category : Health Centers > Nose Diseases and Sinuses

Nosebleed

Alternate Names : Epistaxis

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Attribution


A nosebleed is usually caused by a damaged blood vessel that leaks blood. Nosebleeds can affect all ages, but they are twice as common in children as in adults.

What is going on in the body?

When the blood vessels in the nose are damaged, they can bleed. Bleeding is most often limited to one nostril. If there is severe trauma to the nose, both nostrils may bleed.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Several possible causes of a nosebleed are as follows:

  • trauma or injury to the nose, which is the most common cause
  • nasal or sinus infection
  • excessive nose-blowing
  • uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • bleeding or clotting problem
  • tumor
  • cocaine use
  • the use of topical nasal steroid medicines
  • dry mucous membranes in the nose due to low humidity

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    Nosebleed: Symptoms & Signs

    Author: Adam Brochert, MD
    Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
    Date Reviewed: 08/20/01









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    Page Last Updated: 30th May, 2006