EPISTAXIS ("nose bleeds")

Nose bleeds are a common occurrence, and most people will experience an occasional episode. Frequent nose bleeds can be annoying, and a nuisance in public situations. Larger nose bleeds can cause a significant loss of blood, and are a cause for concern and require a hospital visit.

Small nose bleeds often arise from fragile vessels in the front portion of the nose. Dry air, scabbing, trauma, blood thinning medication and even a deviated septum may predispose to this. Your ENT surgeon can easily identify these vessels, and often cautery can be performed in the rooms.

Larger bleeds tend to arise from bigger blood vessels at the back of the nose. High blood pressure and older age can be factors. This may require a hospital visit and occasionally packing with an inflatable balloon. Surgery to deal with the bleeding point is frequently necessary.