Nosebleeds in children are common, but they can also be scary because of how shocking it is to see blood gush out of the nose. However, they generally don’t signify any danger and can be easily stopped.
The most important thing is to stay calm and follow some simple recommendations. Normally, the bleeding will stop in a very short time. Only in some uncommon cases do you need to seek medical help.
Read this article to learn a little more about nosebleeds in children so that you can act quickly and correctly when they happen.
Why do Nosebleeds in Children happen?
The most common cause of nosebleeds in children is the rupture of one of the small blood vessels in the nose, causing the flow of blood known as “epistaxis.” There are various reasons for these ruptures, including:
- Nose picking
- A cold or allergy
- A dry environment
- Allergy medications
- A previous injury or blow
When nosebleeds in children occur very often, the capillaries inside the nose may be irritated or they may not have healed well from a previous break. In those cases, a doctor may seek a more durable solution.
We also recommend seeking medical help if the bleeding is the result of an external blow to the nose or head. In rare cases, your child may have a blood clotting problem that should also be treated by a specialist.
What to do if there’s bleeding?
A very simple procedure is enough to stop nosebleeds in children:
- Take a tissue or towel and pinch the nose in the soft area under the septum.
- Keep exerting pressure and tilt the child’s head forward.
- After 10 minutes, stop pressing. Don’t do it before to make sure the wound dries well.
- If it’s still bleeding, do it again for another 10 minutes. If it still continues to bleed, we recommend you go to the doctor.
There are also some popular beliefs that aren’t accurate, and that’s why we’re going to warn you about what you should NOT do:
- Don’t make the child lie down – it’s best to stay standing or sitting.
- Don’t tilt your head back as this could send blood down their throat.
- Don’t let them pick their nose, and don’t put objects inside such as cotton or tissue, because they can make the bleeding worse instead of stopping it.
See a doctor if you notice any of these symptoms
- In addition to bleeding, the child feels dizzy.
- The bleeding is the result of a blow to the head.
- The bleeding is stronger than normal.
- There are bruises on other parts of the body.
- Other parts of the body bleed, such as the gums.
How to prevent nosebleeds in children
- Keep children’s nails short so they don’t cut themselves if they pick their noses
- Keep your home humid. If the weather’s very dry, moisten your nose with nasal sprays.
- Make sure that your children wear protective gear if they play contact sports.
Finally, keep calm and use the methods described in this article. In case of complications or doubts, you can always go to the doctor.
Via: HealthLine | HealthyChildren
