Nosebleed (Epistaxis): symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as bleeding nose.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Nosebleeds are common, especially in dry harmattan weather, after nose-picking or minor knocks — most come from small vessels at the front of the nose and stop with simple first aid. Frequent or heavy bleeds, particularly in older adults with hypertension, deserve a medical check.
Symptoms
Bleeding from one or both nostrils
Blood trickling down the back of the throat
Light-headedness with heavy bleeding
Frequent small bleeds in dry weather
Causes & risk factors
Dry air and harmattan cracking the nasal lining
Nose-picking or forceful blowing
Minor injuries
Hypertension and blood-thinning medicines in adults
Rarely, growths or bleeding disorders
Treatment & self-care
Sit upright, lean slightly forward and pinch the soft lower part of the nose firmly for a full 10 to 15 minutes without peeking — do not tilt the head back or pack with tissue. A smear of petroleum jelly inside the nostrils and humidified air prevent dry-season bleeds. Recurring or heavy bleeds need examination and a blood-pressure check.
See a doctor urgently if
Bleeding not stopping after 20 minutes of correct pressure
Heavy bleeding with dizziness or fainting
Frequent recurring nosebleeds
Nosebleeds while on blood thinners
One-sided blockage with bleeding in an adult
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Nosebleed (Epistaxis)?
Early signs often include bleeding from one or both nostrils, blood trickling down the back of the throat, light-headedness with heavy bleeding. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Nosebleed (Epistaxis) be treated?
Sit upright, lean slightly forward and pinch the soft lower part of the nose firmly for a full 10 to 15 minutes without peeking — do not tilt the head back or pack with tissue. A smear of petroleum jelly inside the nostrils and humidified air prevent dry-season bleeds. Recurring or heavy bleeds need examination and a blood-pressure check.
When should I see a doctor about Nosebleed (Epistaxis)?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: bleeding not stopping after 20 minutes of correct pressure; heavy bleeding with dizziness or fainting; frequent recurring nosebleeds; nosebleeds while on blood thinners; one-sided blockage with bleeding in an adult.