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Page: Treatment
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The flow of blood normally stops when the blood clots, which may be encouraged by direct pressure and reducing the blood pressure in the head by sitting upright with the head tilted forward for about 10 minutes. Tilting the head back is not advised, as it can lead to blood flowing into the respiratory system, and possibly resulting in vomiting or death. Petroleum jelly is sometimes applied to stop the blood from seeping out of and prohibit the loss of moisture in the nasal cavity. However, the jelly can drain into the lungs producing a buildup that leads to lipoid pneumonia.
If other techniques do not work, an anterior packing is a possible remedy. An anterior pack works by applying pressure from the inside of the cavity, thus stopping the bleeding. This procedure can be performed at home for minor nosebleeds by gently packing tissue or gauze into the nasal cavity. Nasal sponges are readily available at most drugstores and supermarkets.
If bleeding continues, seeking emergency medical attention is important. Continued bleeding is an indication of more serious underlying conditions.
Chronic epistaxis resulting from a dry nasal mucosa is often treated by spraying saline in the nose up to three times per day. There are also non-petroleum based gels that can be used.
Persistent epistaxis is an indication for urgent medical consultation. Nasal packing, cryosurgery, electrocautery or application of trichloroacetic acid are options that may be used in severe epistaxis.
It is uncommon to die from bleeding through nosebleeds. A famous person who is reported to have died from a nosebleed was Atilla the Hun. However, damage to the maxillary artery can lead to rapid blood loss via the nose and presents difficulty in treatment; pressure, vasoconstrictor and rhinocort occasionally proving ineffective. Embolization or ligation of the artery, risking damage to the facial nerves, may be the only solution.
Nevertheless, severe protracted nosebleeds may cause anemia due to iron deficiency.
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Important notice:
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other
qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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