Noticing blood when blowing your nose is a common experience. While concerning, it’s usually not serious and often resolves without medical intervention. Understanding its causes and prevention can provide peace of mind.
Why Nosebleeds Happen When You Blow Your Nose
The nasal lining contains delicate blood vessels that lie close to the surface. One area particularly prone to bleeding is Kiesselbach’s plexus, also known as Little’s Area, located on the anterior (front) part of the nasal septum. This area is highly vascularized, making it susceptible to rupture from even minor irritation.
When you blow your nose, the force exerted can put pressure on these fragile vessels, leading to bleeding. Several factors can make these blood vessels more vulnerable. Dry air, especially in dry environments, can dry out the nasal membranes, making them crusty, cracked, and prone to bleeding.
Allergies, colds, and sinus infections cause inflammation and irritation, increasing nosebleed likelihood. Frequent or forceful nose blowing during these times further exacerbates the issue. Nose picking also traumatizes the delicate tissue. Certain medications, such as blood thinners, also increase bleeding risk.
What To Do When You Have a Nosebleed
If you have a nosebleed, remain calm. Position yourself upright and lean slightly forward to prevent blood from flowing down your throat and causing nausea. Gently pinch the soft part of your nose, just above the nostrils, using your thumb and forefinger. Maintain continuous pressure for 5 to 10 minutes, breathing through your mouth.
Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the bridge of your nose can help constrict blood vessels and reduce bleeding. Avoid leaning your head back, as this can cause blood to drain into your throat. Do not stuff tissues or other materials into your nose, as this can irritate vessels and worsen bleeding. After the bleeding stops, avoid blowing your nose vigorously or picking at the area for several hours to allow a clot to form.
When To Seek Medical Care
While most nosebleeds are not serious, seek medical attention in specific situations. Seek care if a nosebleed persists for more than 20 minutes despite applying direct pressure. Very heavy bleeding, especially if it appears to be coming from both nostrils or flowing significantly down the back of your throat, warrants prompt evaluation.
Nosebleeds that occur after a head injury or significant trauma to the nose should be assessed by a healthcare professional. If you experience frequent nosebleeds without a clear cause, or if you are taking blood-thinning medications and have a nosebleed, consult a doctor. Other symptoms accompanying nosebleeds, such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, or unusual bruising, may indicate a need for medical consultation.
Steps To Prevent Future Nosebleeds
Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of future nosebleeds. Maintaining nasal moisture is important. Using a humidifier, especially in dry environments, keeps the air moist and prevents nasal membranes from drying. Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly or an antibiotic ointment like bacitracin just inside your nostrils with a cotton swab can lubricate the nasal lining.
Regular use of saline nasal sprays keeps nasal passages moist and clear of irritants. Avoid forceful nose blowing, especially with congestion or allergies. Instead, blow gently, one nostril at a time. Managing allergies effectively through medication or avoiding triggers can reduce nasal inflammation and irritation, decreasing nosebleed frequency. Refraining from nose picking and keeping fingernails trimmed, especially in children, prevents direct trauma to delicate nasal blood vessels.