Kulsum International Hospital

Epistaxis (Nosebleed)

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Symptoms
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

Most nosebleeds come from the front of the nose and can be stopped at home. Bleeding from the back of the nose is less common and may need medical care.

Symptoms

  • Bleeding from one or both nostrils
  • Blood running down the throat
  • Repeated nosebleeds in some people

Causes and risk factors

Causes include dry air, nose picking, colds and allergies, injury, blood-thinning medicines, high blood pressure and bleeding disorders.

Diagnosis

A doctor examines the nose to find the bleeding point. Blood tests may be done for repeated or heavy bleeding.

Treatment

Sit up, lean forward and pinch the soft part of the nose for 10 to 15 minutes. A doctor may cauterise the bleeding point or pack the nose.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor for frequent nosebleeds. Seek emergency care if bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes of pressure, is very heavy, follows a head injury, or you take blood thinners.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Our doctors

Consultants in the KIH departments that diagnose and treat Epistaxis (Nosebleed).

ENT Surgery

Prof. Maj. Gen. (R) Dr. Shoaib Ahmed

Consultant ENT Surgeon

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