Nosebleeds in Tarzana

Nosebleeds - Marc Cohen M.D, Tarzana Surgeon

Nosebleeds

A nosebleed, or epistaxis, refers to any bleeding from the nasal cavity. They are fairly common in adults and children aged 3 to 10, and usually appear spontaneously or following trauma when a blood vessel in the nose ruptures.

Some of the events that can cause a nosebleed include:

  • Inhaling dry or cold air
  • Nose picking
  • Blowing the nose very hard
  • Irritation due to sneezing, allergies, colds, or sinus problems
  • Chemical irritants
  • Injury to the nose
  • Perforated or deviated septum
  • Overuse of decongestant nasal sprays

Treatment for nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are rarely a cause of concern. Anterior nosebleeds, where the bleeding originates from the front of the nose, can be treated at home by pinching the soft part of the nose while sitting up for about 10 minutes. Lying down can cause you to swallow the blood. You need to lean forward slightly and breathe through the mouth.

Check if the bleeding has stopped after 10 minutes. If it hasn't, continue for another 10 minutes. If you're still nose bleeding after 20 minutes, you should visit an ENT specialist for professional medical attention immediately.

You may also need professional medical assistance if you have a posterior nosebleed, where the bleeding originates from the back of the nose and flows down the throat.

If the nosebleed doesn't stop, Dr. Cohen may insert cotton or gauze into your nose (nasal packing). If the source of the bleeding is visible, he may choose to seal the vessel with heat or a silver nitrate chemical. In severe cases, surgical options like arterial ligation (tieing off the blood vessel) and embolization (placing a material inside the vessel) may help stop the bleeding.

Dr. Cohen will advise you on the best treatment for your case.