Nosebleeds can strike anywhere and anytime which makes them especially annoying, but normally, they’re nothing more than that. It can be more than a little uncomfortable when a nose bleed occurs in a situation like a family dinner or first date. These sporadic nosebleeds typically don’t last long and stop even quicker when pressure is applied.
But under normal circumstances, nosebleeds don’t happen very often. So if you’re having nosebleeds fairly often, you might feel a little concerned. After all, we’re taught from a really young age to correlate bleeding with an injury. It’s not unusual that you would find yourself questioning whether your bleeding nose is an indication that something’s not quite right.
Frequent nosebleeds – what’s the cause?
You may be experiencing frequent nose bleeds for one or more of the following reasons.
Environmental causes: The most prevalent environmental trigger for frequent nosebleeds is dry air. Dry air can aggravate your nose, and result in a bloody nose.
Behavior: If you consistently and intensely blow your nose it could lead to nosebleeds.
Medication: Frequent nosebleeds can be related to some medication. You should consult us about any medication you’re taking if you notice a spike in nosebleeds.
Structural issues: Sometimes, your nose is simply shaped a little bit differently. These congenital issues can result in more recurrent nosebleeds over time.
Health conditions: There are some health conditions that decrease or prevent your body’s ability to clot blood. This can lead to recurring nosebleeds.
Growths in the sinuses: Your sinus passage can occasionally have growths such as polyps or a tumor. Regular nosebleeds can happen when this is the situation.
Colds and allergies: Sometimes, those mucus membranes can really dry out from an allergic reaction or a cold. And this can result in, you guessed it, more frequent nosebleeds.
There are some relatively innocuous items on this list but there are also some really serious ones. So how can you tell when you should be worried or when it’s time to consult your physician about your nosebleeds?
When do nosebleeds need to be treated by your physician?
Firstly, it’s never a bad idea to come see us about your frequent nosebleeds if you’re worried. It’s always good to get a little peace of mind! As a general rule, you should come see us if:
- You’re currently having frequent nosebleeds and you have not seen a doctor before for this problem.
- They are happening more frequently, or have become more difficult to get control of.
If necessary, we will help you determine how to stop your nosebleeds and also find their source.
When to find emergency care for your nosebleeds
There are certain emergency medical conditions that can generate frequent nosebleeds. You should seek out immediate emergency care if:
- Your nosebleeds are causing you to have difficulty breathing even through your mouth.
- Your nosebleed creates more blood volume than you would expect. Simply put, head to the emergency room if the bleeding is alarmingly heavy.
- The nosebleed arises in an individual younger than two years old.
- Even after applying pressure for up to thirty minutes, your nose doesn’t stop bleeding.
- Your nosebleed is the result of or happens directly after trauma and injury.
- It’s essential that you get someone else to drive you to the emergency room if you determine you need emergency treatment. That’s because loss of blood can impede your ability to drive.
- Your condition can get significantly worse if you get dizzy or pass out while driving.
Listen to your nose
You should make an appointment if something feels off or you’re concerned about repeated nosebleeds. As a general rule, if your nose bleeds 2-3 times a month, it’s probably something benign, such as allergies or dry air. But if getting bloody noses 4 (or more than 4) times in a week, that may suggest something more serious.