What causes nosebleeds? Preventive Actions

The nose is a part of the body rich in blood vessels (vascular) and is situated in a vulnerable position as it protrudes on the face. As a result, trauma to the face can cause nasal injury and bleeding. The bleeding may be profuse, or simply a minor complication.

Nosebleeds can occur spontaneously when the nasal membranes dry out and crack. This is common in dry climates, or during the winter months when the air is dry and warm from household heaters. People are more susceptible to bleeding if they are taking medications which prevent normal blood clotting warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, or any anti-inflammatory medication]. In this situation, even a minor trauma could result in significant bleeding.

The incidence of nosebleeds is higher during the colder winter months when upper respiratory infections are more frequent, and the temperature and humidity fluctuate more dramatically. In addition, changes from a bitter cold outside environment to a warm, dry, heated home results in drying and changes in the nose which will make it more susceptible to bleeding.

Nosebleeds also occur in hot dry climates with low humidity, or when there is a change in the seasons.

The following factors predispose people to nosebleeds:

• Infection
• Trauma, including self-induced by nose picking
• Allergic and non-allergic rhinitis
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Use of blood thinning medications
• Alcohol abuse
• Less common causes include tumors and inherited bleeding problems

Preventive Actions

Here are some tips on how you can prevent nosebleed:

1. If you are prone to nosebleeds, check the humidity in your house, and raise it to the normal range. Keep the heat low from 60-64 degrees in your bedroom.

2. Always keep nostrils moist. Take a shower and breathe deeply to get the moisture into your nose. Then put petroleum jelly on the inside of your nose to keep it moist. A saline solution spray will might also help.

3. Limit blood thinners such as Aspirin, vitamin E, Coumadin, heparin, garlic, ginger and ginseng are blood thinners. If you will use blood thinners, inform your doctor about the nosebleeds.

4. Daily consumption of citrus fruit can also help eliminate recurring nosebleeds. The bioflavonoids (a class of antioxidants) found in the fruit, appears to help with the prevention. Bioflavonoids also help strengthen the blood vessel that makes them less likely to rupture.

5. Avoid foods that may give you a severe allergic reaction, like milk and wheat.

6. Putting a few drops of castor oil, vitamin E or zinc oxide in your nose each day will prevent frequent nosebleeds.

7. You need also to avoid spicy foods and fried foods.

8. Do not scratch your nose very hard, especially if the inside is sensitive, or your nose is very dry.