What causes frequent nosebleeds from the left nostril?

Generally speaking, frequent nosebleeds from the left nostril may be caused by habits such as picking the nose, dry nasal mucosa, chronic rhinitis, deviated nasal septum, nasal hemangioma, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Nose picking habit

Repeatedly and unconsciously picking the left nostril can cause repeated injury to the left nasal mucosa, making it fragile and prone to frequent bleeding. Mechanical stimulation during nose picking can also lead to local mucosal infection. Immediately stop picking the left nostril. If there is nasal discharge or itching in the left nasal cavity, use a clean cotton swab dipped in normal saline to gently wipe. Keep fingernails trimmed to avoid scratches and maintain hand hygiene to reduce the chance of introducing bacteria into the left nasal cavity.

2. Dry nasal mucosa

If the nasal mucosa remains dry for a long time—for example, if the left nostril has better ventilation and faster moisture evaporation, or if one is constantly in a dry environment—the fragility of blood vessels beneath the mucosa may increase, making them prone to rupture and bleeding. There may also be a sensation of burning in the left nasal cavity. Use a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity at 50%-60%, and spray the left nasal cavity 2-3 times daily with normal saline nasal spray. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure of the left nostril to dry air, and cover the left side of the nose appropriately when outdoors.

3. Chronic rhinitis

When chronic inflammation occurs in the nasal cavity, the mucosa remains congested and swollen for a long time, becomes brittle, and can bleed easily even with slight irritation. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as nasal congestion and runny nose on the left side. Under a doctor's guidance, use medications such as budesonide nasal spray, Tongqiao Biyan tablets, and montelukast sodium tablets to reduce inflammation in the left nasal cavity. Regularly rinse the left nasal cavity with normal saline to remove secretions, reduce inflammatory irritation, and avoid forcefully blowing the left nostril.

4. Deviated nasal septum

When the nasal septum deviates to the left, the mucosa on the left side is constantly impacted by airflow, making it prone to dryness and erosion, which can lead to frequent nosebleeds. There may also be nasal congestion on the left side. Avoid external impacts to the left nostril in daily life, and use compound camphor nasal drops to keep the mucosa moist. If nosebleeds occur frequently, seek medical attention promptly. The doctor may recommend applying erythromycin ointment to the eroded area in the left nasal cavity to prevent infection. If symptoms are severe, follow medical advice to consider septoplasty.

5. Nasal hemangioma

If there is a hemangioma in the left nasal cavity, its blood vessels are rich and have thin walls, making them prone to rupture and bleeding. The bleeding is often sudden, may recur, and sometimes involves a large volume of blood. Immediately apply pressure to the left ala nasi to stop the bleeding when it occurs, and seek medical help as soon as possible. Depending on the size and location of the lesion, the doctor will choose an appropriate treatment method. Smaller hemangiomas may be treated with sclerosing agents such as sodium morrhuate injection under medical guidance, while larger lesions may require surgical removal or laser treatment. Regular follow-up examinations of the left nasal cavity are necessary after treatment to monitor recovery.

In daily life, maintain a light diet and consume more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C; avoid exposure of the left nostril to irritating gases; and develop good habits of nasal blowing.