Seeking Medical Care
For most people, it’s not necessary to see a doctor if you have a nosebleed. As discussed before, nosebleeds are quite common, and not worth being alarmed over in most cases.
However, you should talk to your doctor if:
- Have had repeated nosebleed episodes
- Have bleeding occurring in other places apart from the nose
- Are bruising easily
- Are on and kind of blood-thinning medications, including warfarin and aspirin
- Have any underlying disease that might impact your blood’s ability to clot, such as liver disease, kidney disease, or haemophilia
- You’ve had a recent chemotherapy session
However, it is worth attending a hospital emergency room or after-hours clinic if you are experiencing any of the following, to ensure there is nothing wrong.
- You’re still bleeding after 10 minutes, despite pinching the nose.
- You’re experiencing repeated nosebleeds over a short time.
- You’re feeling light-headed, dizzy, or on the verge of fainting.
- You have a rapid heartbeat or you’re having trouble breathing.
- You are coughing or vomiting blood.
- You have a rash or a temperature of more than 38.5C.
- Your doctor tells you to attend an emergency room.
Preventing Nosebleeds
It is definitely possible to prevent nosebleeds. Most of the time, nosebleeds happen during the colder, dryer months, or in situations where an individual spends a lot of time breathing dry, cold air, such as as in an air-conditioned environment.
If you suffer from nosebleeds in these environments, keep the nasal area moist using a saline nasal spray, or a small amount of petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline).
You should also avoid picking or vigorously blowing the nose, and take care with antihistamines use and smoking, both of which can dry the nasal passages and lead to irritation.
If you become concerned about any symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention we have some hotlines and suggested websites for further information and advice https://www.stayathomemum.com.au/my-kids/babies/important-hotlines-websites/
SAHM takes no responsibility for any illness, injury or death caused by misuse of this information. All information provided is correct at time of publication.