nose and sinus condition

Nosebleeds

Overview

The nasal septum is the wall between the nostrils that separates the nasal passages. The septum is made of cartilage and thin bone. If the nasal septum is crooked, it is called a deviated nasal septum. A deviated septum may be caused by injury or surgery to the nose. A deviated nasal septum may not cause symptoms. When present, symptoms may include a crooked nose, noisy breathing, or trouble breathing through the nose (especially on one side).

Most nosebleeds aren’t serious. They usually can be stopped with home treatment. Most nosebleeds occur in the front of the nose (anterior epistaxis) and involve only one nostril. Some blood may drain down the back of the nose into the throat. Many things may make a nosebleed more likely. They include:

  • Changes in the environment, such as:
    • Cold, dry climates; low humidity.
    • High altitude.
    • Chemical fumes.
    • Smoke.
  • Injury to the nose, such as:
    • Hitting or bumping the nose.
    • Blowing or picking the nose.
    • Piercing the nose.
    • An object in the nose. This is more common in children, who may put things up their noses.
  • Medical problems, such as:
    • An abnormal structure inside the nose. Examples are nasal polyps and a deviated nasal septum.
    • Colds, allergies, or sinus infections.
    • High blood pressure.
    • Kidney disease.
    • Liver disease.
    • Blood clotting disorders. These include hemophilia, leukemia, thrombocytopenia, and von Willebrand’s disease.
    • Abnormal blood vessels in the nose.
  • Medicines, such as:
    • Those that affect blood clotting. These include aspirin, other blood thinners, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
    • Cold and allergy medicines.
    • Oxygen.
    • Nasal inhalers, such as Afrin.
    • Steroid nasal sprays.
  • Nasal use of illegal drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamines.

A less common but more serious type of nosebleed starts in the back of the nose (posterior epistaxis). It often involves both nostrils. Large amounts of blood may run down the back of the throat. This type occurs more often in older adults because of other health problems they may have. Medical treatment will be needed to control the bleeding from this type of nosebleed.