What Causes Frequent Nosebleeds in Children?
Aug 24, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
Acute febrile infectious diseases: Infectious diseases characterized by sudden onset and high fever are common in children, especially upper respiratory tract infections. During high fever, blood vessels in the skin and mucous membranes throughout the body become congested and swollen. The nasal mucosa undergoes the same pathological changes—acute congestion and swelling—which can easily lead to rupture and bleeding. Moreover, the blood vessels in the nasal mucosa are superficial.
Occasional nosebleeds in children often go unnoticed by parents. However, when a child experiences recurrent epistaxis, parents should take it seriously. So, what causes frequent nosebleeds in children?
What Causes Frequent Nosebleeds in Children?
Acute febrile infectious diseases: Children are particularly susceptible to acute, high-fever infectious diseases—especially upper respiratory tract infections. During high fever, blood vessels throughout the skin and mucous membranes become congested and swollen, including those in the nasal mucosa. This acute congestion and swelling of the nasal mucosa can easily lead to rupture and bleeding. Moreover, the blood vessels in the nasal mucosa lie close to the surface; thus, even minor external trauma—such as forceful nose-picking—can cause these superficial vessels to rupture and bleed. As the nose is an exposed external organ, it is also the most vulnerable to blunt trauma, such as impact injuries or falls.
Correcting unhealthy habits: Habits such as nose-picking commonly trigger nosebleeds in children. Insufficient water intake may lead to dryness and damage of the nasal mucosa. Once parents address these habits—such as discouraging nose-picking and encouraging adequate hydration—the frequency of nosebleeds typically decreases.Humidifying indoor air: Dry weather, overheated or arid indoor environments, and common colds can all contribute to nasal dryness.
Additionally, parents may place a humidifier or a bowl of water in the child’s bedroom before bedtime to help maintain optimal humidity levels, thereby keeping the nasal passages moist and reducing nose-picking–related bleeding. We hope this article has been helpful!
