Nose bleeds

Haemorrhaging from the nose, or nose bleeds, are most often caused by damage to a patch of small blood vessels lying very near the surface of the skin, just inside the nose.

Nose bleeds are usually caused by a blow or injury to the nose during rough games, or simply because your child persistently picks his nose.

What to do

This small patch of blood vessels can bleed rather a lot, but try not to panic. Never tip your child's head back because blood that is swallowed can irritate the stomach and cause vomiting. This will only increase the blood pressure in the head and create a tendency for the nose to bleed again.

Apply gentle pressure with your thumb and first finger on either side of the soft part if the nose up to ten minutes or until the bleeding has stopped. If bleeding does not stop, pinch the nose for another ten minutes. If it still does not stop, get medical advice.

If your child has nose bleeds quite frequently ask for medical advice. Your child may be referred to an ear, nose and throat specialist for cauterization of the delicate areas inside the nose.

Dr Miriam Stoppard

New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard

Posted 03.11.2010

Get more on this subject…