Nose Bleeds: Causes, Types, and When to Seek Medical Care
In medical terms, nose bleeding is referred to as epistaxis. A nosebleed is simply the loss of blood from the tissue lining inside your nasal passages.
There are two kinds of nose bleeds. The most common type of nosebleed is the anterior nosebleed, which is generally not severe and caused due to dryness and irritation in the inner lining of the nostrils. The second type is posterior nosebleed, which occurs deep within the nasal passages and is a severe form that necessitates medical help. These nosebleeds are typically caused by large blood vessels, resulting in heavy bleeding that can be risky. This type of bleed necessitates medical attention, particularly if it occurs because of an injury and the bleeding has not yet stopped after twenty minutes of directly applying strain to your nose.
At Curis Life, our ENT specialists regularly see patients with nosebleeds (epistaxis) and focus on identifying the root cause to prevent recurrence.
Types of Nose Bleeds
Anterior Nose Bleed
This is the most common type of nosebleed and usually originates from the front part of the nose.
- Often caused by dryness, irritation, or minor trauma
- Usually mild and manageable with simple first aid
- Common in children and young adults
Posterior Nose Bleed
This type occurs deep within the nasal cavity and is less common but more serious.
- Caused by bleeding from larger blood vessels
- Can result in heavy or continuous bleeding
- More common in older adults or after injury
- Requires immediate medical attention, especially if bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes of pressure
Common Causes of Nose Bleeding
Cold Weather
Cold weather can dry out the inner lining of the nose, similar to dry skin or chapped lips. Cracks may form in the nasal lining, leading to bleeding.
Using humidifiers, staying hydrated, and applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly can help prevent this.
Dry Air
Dry air—especially from air conditioners or heaters—is one of the most common causes of nosebleeds. It dries the nasal membranes, causing crusting and irritation. Scratching or picking these crusts can lead to bleeding.
Sinusitis and Infections
Sinus infections, common colds, and respiratory illnesses can inflame the nasal lining. Frequent nose blowing during illness may further damage fragile blood vessels and trigger bleeding.
Nose Picking
Excessive nose picking or scratching damages the mucus layer and ruptures delicate blood vessels, leading to frequent nosebleeds—especially in children.
Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS)
People with a deviated nasal septum often experience repeated nosebleeds. Uneven airflow causes one side of the nose to dry excessively, increasing the risk of bleeding. Surgical correction may be recommended in persistent cases.
Other Contributing Factors
Additional causes of nose bleeding include:
- Nasal polyps
- Foreign objects inside the nose
- Use of blood-thinning medications like aspirin
- Blood clotting disorders
- Chemical irritants or allergens
- Physical injury to the nose
How to Reduce the Risk of Nose Bleeds
While nosebleeds cannot always be prevented, the following measures can significantly reduce their frequency:
- Keep the inside of your nose moist using saline nasal sprays
- Use a humidifier, especially in dry indoor environments
- Avoid excessive nose picking, rubbing, or forceful blowing
- Stay away from cigarette smoke, which irritates the nasal lining
- Use cold or allergy medications only as prescribed by your doctor
- Apply nasal ointments only after medical advice
When Should You Visit an ENT Specialist?
You should consult an ENT doctor at Curis Life if you experience:
- Frequent or recurrent nosebleeds
- Bleeding that lasts more than 20 minutes
- Nosebleeds from only one nostril repeatedly
- Nosebleeds associated with headache, dizziness, or weakness
- Nosebleeds after injury
Early evaluation helps prevent complications and ensures proper treatment.
Expert ENT Care at Curis Life
At Curis Life, our ENT specialists offer comprehensive evaluation and treatment for nosebleeds, including nasal endoscopy, medical management, and advanced ENT procedures when needed. Our focus is on long-term relief and patient safety.
Visit us at:
201, New Link Rd, opposite Laxmi Industrial Estate, Veera Desai Industrial Estate, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400053
Call Now: +91 98690 41559 . Book an ENT consultation today for accurate diagnosis and personalized care.
