What causes nosebleeds in children?
I am 32 years old and a mother of a 6-year-old boy. Recently, I noticed that he often experiences nosebleeds, especially during dry weather or after playing. I would like to ask, what are the causes of nosebleeds in children?
Doctor's answer (1)
The causes of nosebleeds in children may include nasal dryness, trauma or irritation, and some underlying health conditions. The mucous membrane lining the nasal cavity is relatively fragile. When the air is excessively dry, it can cause the nasal mucosa in children to become dry and prone to rupture and bleeding, especially since children's nasal mucosa is naturally more delicate. In addition, during play, children may accidentally bump their noses or cause nasal injury through actions such as forceful nose-blowing or picking their noses, which can also lead to nosebleeds. In rare cases, nosebleeds might be related to blood disorders, hypertension, or other systemic diseases, although such situations are relatively uncommon.
If a child experiences frequent nosebleeds, it is recommended to observe whether there are any accompanying symptoms such as skin bruising, fatigue, or fever, and to seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, maintaining indoor humidity and avoiding nasal dryness can help reduce the likelihood of nosebleeds—for example, by using a humidifier or applying a small amount of petroleum jelly to protect the nasal mucosa. Educate children not to pick their noses or blow their noses forcefully to avoid unnecessary injury. When a nosebleed occurs, have the child sit down and slightly tilt their head forward, then use fingers to gently press the soft parts of the nose for several minutes to stop the bleeding. These measures can effectively help prevent and manage nosebleeds in children.
