What causes frequent nosebleeds in a 5-year-old child?

A neighbor’s 5-year-old child has experienced frequent nosebleeds over the past year. These episodes occur more often when the weather turns hot or cold. Although each episode stops quickly, the recurrent nosebleeds still cause significant concern for the parents. So, what could be causing frequent nosebleeds in a 5-year-old?

What Causes Frequent Nosebleeds in a 5-Year-Old?

Frequent nosebleeds in 5-year-olds are commonly attributed to “excess internal heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept), leading to “blood heat.” This condition is typically accompanied by symptoms of “heat excess,” such as sore throat, flushed face, dark yellow urine, and halitosis. In such cases, herbal remedies like Qingre Jiedu Oral Liquid or Shuanghuanglian Oral Liquid may be used to clear heat and detoxify.

Additionally, chronic nasal inflammation—such as chronic rhinitis or chronic sinusitis—can also predispose children to recurrent nosebleeds. These conditions are often associated with nasal congestion, pain, or itching. Under a physician’s guidance, anti-inflammatory treatment with cephalosporin antibiotics or roxithromycin granules may be prescribed.

Dietary adjustments play an important role in managing and preventing nosebleeds—particularly by reducing inflammation and enhancing immunity. If nosebleeds are due to “heat excess,” parents should offer cooling foods such as watermelon, celery, and pear.

If nosebleeds stem from conditions like rhinitis, parents should prioritize foods rich in vitamins to bolster the child’s immune system—for example, kiwifruit and dragon fruit. Foods high in high-quality protein, such as eggs and milk, also support overall health. In cases of severe or prolonged nosebleeding, iron-rich foods—such as pork liver and red dates—may be added to help prevent iron-deficiency anemia. We hope this information is helpful!