What is Kiesselbach’s plexus?

In autumn, strong winds and low atmospheric humidity cause the nasal mucosa to become dry and fragile. Additionally, autumn temperatures fluctuate significantly—large temperature differences often occur between early morning, evening, and midday. To adapt to these rapid external temperature changes (sudden cooling or heating), the capillaries inside the nose alternately dilate and constrict, making them highly susceptible to injury and bleeding.

What Is the “Prone-to-Bleed Area”?

The “prone-to-bleed area” refers to a region where blood vessels are particularly vulnerable to rupture and subsequent bleeding.

The anterior-inferior portion of the nasal septum is covered by relatively thin mucosa rich in superficial blood vessels. This area is highly susceptible to trauma or irritation from dry air, leading easily to vascular rupture and bleeding—hence its designation as the “prone-to-bleed area.” The septal branches of the anterior and posterior ethmoidal arteries, the sphenopalatine artery, the greater palatine artery, and the septal branch of the superior labial artery anastomose within and beneath the mucosa of the anterior-inferior nasal septum, forming an arterial plexus. This plexus represents the most common clinical site of epistaxis, accounting for approximately 90% of all cases—thus earning the name “prone-to-bleed area.” From an anatomical perspective, the arterial and venous networks formed by the internal and external carotid arteries and veins in this region may be termed the “arterial plexus” and “venous plexus,” respectively. Because bleeding originating from this area is often difficult to distinguish as purely arterial or venous in nature, clinicians collectively refer to it as the “prone-to-bleed area.”

Traditionally, anterior nasal packing with petrolatum-impregnated gauze has been used to treat bleeding from the prone-to-bleed area; however, microwave therapy is now more commonly employed.

To prevent nasal dryness, consider using compound menthol-camphor oil nasal drops regularly. During the dry autumn and winter months, use a humidifier to maintain ambient air moisture. Also, limit alcohol consumption.

After epistaxis occurs, the correct first-aid approach is to insert a sterile cotton ball or gauze into the affected nostril and firmly pinch the soft part of the nose (the nasal alae) toward the midline and upward for approximately 10 minutes—applying pressure directly over the suspected bleeding site. If bleeding is heavy, gently splash cold water onto the nape of the neck. Should bleeding persist despite these measures, seek prompt medical attention so that a healthcare provider can identify the precise bleeding source and assist with hemostasis.

We hope the above information is helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!