Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds can be a scary occurrence, but are usually not dangerous. The
medical term for nosebleed is epistaxis. They are fairly common in children,
especially in dry climates or during the winter months when dry heat inside
homes and buildings can cause drying, cracking, or crusting inside the nose.
Many times, children outgrow the tendency for nosebleeds during their teenage
years.
The front part of the nose contains many fragile blood vessels that can be
damaged easily. Most nosebleeds in children occur in the front part of the nose
close to the nostrils.
What causes a nosebleed?
Nosebleeds are caused by many
factors, but some of the most common causes include the following:
- Picking the nose
- Blowing the nose too hard
- Injury to the nose
- Over-dry air
- Colds and allergies
- Foreign body in the nose
Many times no apparent cause for a nosebleed can be found.
First-aid for nosebleeds
- Calm your child and let him/her know you can help.
- Pinch the nostrils together for five to ten minutes without checking to
see if bleeding has stopped.
- Have your child sit up and lean forward to avoid swallowing blood.
- Apply ice or a cold water compress to the bridge of the nose.
If bleeding does not stop, try the above steps one more time. Do not pack
your child's nose with tissues or gauze.