When should I worry about a nosebleed?

Written by Dr Ameen, ENT Specialist KL

Most nosebleeds look worse than they are. It is one of the most common reasons patients walk into my clinic. They usually start at the front of the nose and stop on their own within minutes. Yet every now and then, a nosebleed is your body asking for help.

The common causes I see in clinic:
• Nose picking or forceful nose blowing
• Dry air from fans and air conditioning
• Allergies, colds and sinus infections
• Overuse of nasal sprays
• A knock to the nose
• Blood thinners such as aspirin
• High blood pressure
• A foreign object in a child’s nose

Desk with tissue box, nasal spray, glass of water, remote, notebook, and computer monitor

Here is what the research says. Medical reviews show that around 90 percent of nosebleeds come from the front of the nose, an area doctors call Kiesselbach’s plexus. These anterior bleeds usually stop with ten minutes of gentle pressure. Bleeds from the back of the nose are rarer, heavier and linked to high blood pressure.

Woman on sofa holding nose with a displeased expression — Anterior bleeds usually stop with ten minutes of gentle pressure

Worry, and see me, if:
• Bleeding lasts more than 20 minutes despite firm pressure
• Bleeding is heavy or you keep swallowing blood
• Nosebleeds keep coming back week after week
• You are on blood thinners
• You also bruise easily or feel light headed

ENT doctor using headlamp to examine patient's nose in clinic — An ENT specialist examines a patient’s nose.

One last tip. Do not tilt your head back. Sit up, lean slightly forward and pinch the soft part of the nose. And if any of the above applies to you, do not ignore it.

Book an appointment to see me if you have this issue: https://www.kpjhealth.com.my/ameen-saiful-azhar