What should you know about frequent epistaxis?

The front of the nose contains delicate blood vessels that can bleed after nose-picking, forceful blowing, dry air, or a minor scratch. Allergic rhinitis, a common cold, and sinusitis may inflame the lining and make bleeding easier. Nosebleeds can also be more difficult to control when blood pressure is high or when medicines affect clotting. A nosebleed does not by itself identify the cause, and many episodes are minor.

Sit upright, lean slightly forward, and breathe through your mouth. Pinch the soft part of the nose continuously for ten to fifteen minutes; do not keep checking early. Spit out blood rather than swallowing it. Afterward, avoid vigorous blowing, picking, heavy exertion, and very hot drinks for a while. Saline spray or a thin layer of nasal moisturising gel may help dryness. Keep the room comfortably humid and arrange a clinician review if episodes keep returning.

Seek urgent medical help if bleeding is heavy, follows a significant injury, causes weakness or dizziness, runs into the throat despite forward leaning, or does not stop after sustained pressure. Seek prompt assessment if you use blood-thinning medicine, have easy bruising, or the episodes are becoming more frequent. Emergency symptoms such as fainting, trouble breathing, chest pain, or confusion need immediate help.

Ask what may be irritating the nasal lining, whether your medicines or blood pressure need review, and whether the bleeding site needs treatment. Bring a record of timing, duration, side affected, possible triggers, and what stopped each episode.