Nosebleeds occur when the tiny blood vessels inside the lining of the nose break and bleed. The most common causes include:
- Dry air : Dryness causes the nasal membranes to dry out, crack, or become crusty, making them more prone to bleeding. This is especially common in cold, dry weather or low-humidity climates
- Nose picking or irritation : Frequent nose picking, scratching, or rubbing the inside of the nose can easily damage the delicate blood vessels and cause bleeding
- Nasal trauma : Injuries such as a bump, fall, or inserting an object into the nostril can cause nosebleeds
- Nasal infections and allergies : Infections of the nose lining, sinuses, or allergic reactions can irritate the nasal membranes and lead to bleeding
- Blowing the nose hard : Vigorous nose blowing can rupture blood vessels in the nose
- Medications and medical conditions : Blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, and conditions affecting blood clotting or blood vessels can increase the risk of nosebleeds. Rare hereditary conditions and nasal tumors can also cause frequent or severe nosebleeds
There are two main types of nosebleeds:
- Anterior nosebleeds : Occur in the front part of the nose (most common and usually less serious).
- Posterior nosebleeds : Occur deeper inside the nose and may require medical attention due to heavier bleeding
In children, nosebleeds are often caused by nose picking or dry air and are usually harmless
. Overall, most nosebleeds are caused by minor irritations or dryness and can be managed at home, but frequent or heavy nosebleeds may warrant medical evaluation
