What causes nosebleeds in babies?

Generally, a baby's nosebleed may be caused by factors such as delicate nasal mucosa, bad nose-picking habits, allergic rhinitis, acute rhinitis, or thrombocytopenic purpura. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Delicate Nasal Mucosa

A baby's nasal mucosa is not yet fully developed and is relatively tender, with abundant and superficial blood vessels underneath. Even mild stimuli such as cold or dry air can easily cause blood vessels to rupture and bleed. Maintain indoor air humidity by using a humidifier to keep the humidity level at 50%-60%, and avoid keeping the baby in dry or cold environments for extended periods. When going outdoors in dry or cold conditions, a mask can be worn to reduce irritation to the nasal mucosa. Regularly use a physiological saline nasal spray to gently moisten the baby's nasal passages.

2. Bad Nose-Picking Habits

Babies are naturally curious and may use their fingers to pick their noses, which can easily damage the delicate nasal mucosa, leading to nosebleeds and possibly introducing bacteria into the nasal cavity and causing infections. Promptly correct the baby's nose-picking habit by distracting them with toys when such behavior occurs. Regularly trim your baby's fingernails to prevent scratches from long nails. If there is nasal discharge, use a clean cotton swab dipped in physiological saline to gently remove it and keep the nasal passages clean.

3. Allergic Rhinitis

After exposure to allergens such as dust mites, pollen, or animal dander, a baby's nasal mucosa may experience an allergic reaction, resulting in swelling, congestion, and fragile mucosa, which can lead to nosebleeds. This is often accompanied by symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal itching. Keep the baby away from known allergens and regularly clean the baby's toys and bedding to reduce dust mite proliferation. Under a doctor's guidance, use medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride drops, loratadine syrup, or mometasone furoate nasal spray to relieve allergy symptoms.

4. Acute Rhinitis

Due to weaker immunity, babies are prone to viral infections that can cause acute rhinitis. The nasal mucosa becomes congested and swollen due to inflammation, making blood vessels more likely to rupture and bleed. Symptoms often include nasal congestion, runny nose, and fever. Ensure the baby gets plenty of rest and adequate sleep, and encourage drinking warm water to aid recovery. Under a doctor's guidance, use medications such as pediatric paracetamol and chlorpheniramine granules, ribavirin granules, or pediatric cold relief syrup to alleviate symptoms. Use physiological saline to rinse the baby's nasal passages and remove nasal secretions to reduce irritation caused by inflammation.

5. Thrombocytopenic Purpura

This is a bleeding disorder caused by reduced platelet count. When a baby's platelet count is insufficient, blood clotting function declines, and even minor injuries to the nasal mucosa can result in nosebleeds. It may also be accompanied by skin bruising and gum bleeding. Seek timely medical attention for the baby and, under a doctor's guidance, use medications such as methylprednisolone tablets, dexamethasone sodium phosphate injection, or human immunoglobulin to increase platelet count. Take care to protect the baby from bumps and injuries in daily life to reduce the risk of bleeding. Regularly schedule follow-up blood tests to monitor changes in platelet levels.

In daily life, ensure the baby's diet is balanced and rich in fruits and vegetables containing vitamin C, such as apples, oranges, and broccoli, which help enhance the nasal mucosa's ability to repair itself.