What should I do if my nose bleeds frequently after an injury?
Aug 22, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
A history of nasal trauma with recurrent epistaxis requires hospital evaluation and diagnosis via electronic nasal endoscopy. If exposed blood vessels are identified locally, electrocautery can be performed for hemostasis. In cases of mucosal laceration, local debridement and suturing are indicated, followed by nasal packing with expandable sponge for compression hemostasis postoperatively. Nasal bone or septal fractures necessitate corrective rhinoplasty or septoplasty, respectively.
Traumatic epistaxis refers to nasal bleeding caused by various external forces and is a common nasal disorder. What should you do if you frequently experience nosebleeds after nasal injury?
What to Do If You Frequently Experience Nosebleeds After Nasal Injury
Frequent nosebleeds following nasal trauma require evaluation via electronic nasal endoscopy at a hospital for definitive diagnosis. If exposed blood vessels are identified, electrocautery may be performed to achieve hemostasis. For mucosal lacerations, local debridement and suturing are indicated, followed by nasal packing with expandable sponge to apply pressure and control bleeding. In cases of nasal bone or nasal septum fractures, corrective rhinoplasty or septoplasty may also be necessary.
Epistaxis most commonly occurs following nasal trauma, primarily due to rupture of nasal blood vessels and mucosa. However, other factors—including exposure to cold, rhinitis, coagulopathy, and frequent nose-picking—can also trigger nosebleeds. After an episode of epistaxis, remain calm and apply a cold, wet towel or ice pack to the nasal root or mid-forehead. Cold application helps constrict blood vessels and stop bleeding; alternatively, pinch both sides of the nose firmly for several minutes. If pharmacologic hemostasis fails and bleeding persists, consult an otolaryngologist for further evaluation to determine whether the cause is local or systemic.
After epistaxis, avoid lying supine immediately, as this may cause blood to flow posteriorly into the pharynx and esophagus. Instead, adopt a semi-recumbent or seated position to maintain airway patency and prevent blood from draining from the nasal cavity into the oral cavity. We hope this information proves helpful!
