Dear Doctor,
I am a student at a virginia Tech and I have been sick with a cold for the past week and a half. I am also having many nose bleeds, which bothers me, because they come out of nowhere, and sometimes during class. What do you suggest that I do to let my nose tissue heal? I try to not touch my nose and I never blow it either. If you are able to help me then I would really appreciate it.
Sincerely
Answer ----------
Epistaxis (nose bleeding) is commonly seen with upper respiratory tract infections that are associated with nasal or sinus symptoms (nasal stuffiness, runny nose, or post nasal drip). There are a variety of factors which predispose to nose bleeding in these conditions. Typically blood vessels and channels in the lining of the nose and sinus become engorged with blood. The lining itself is often fragile because of inflammation and irritation. Additionally, frequent minor traumas usually occur with sneezing, sniffing, rubbing the nose, or nose blowing. Finally, it is not uncommon for this problem to be aggravated by environmental factors such as cold and dry weather typical of winter months.
First of all, avoidance of direct trauma such as rubbing the nose or excessive nose blowing is necessary. Prevention of nose bleeding requires proper humidification - perhaps the use of a vaporizer or humidifier in the bedroom combined with the use of topical nasal saline spray (Ocean nasal spray, Ayr nasal spray, etc) used frequently throughout the day. There are also some saline nasal gels available (Ayr nasal saline gel). Decongestants may also be helpful. Antihistamines can occasionally aggravate the problem since they can dry the membranes.
When nose bleeds occur it is important to expel any blood clots from the nose and then firmly pinch the fleshy part of the nose tightly for 5-10 minutes. Occasional and limited use of oxymetazoline spray (Afrin decongestant spray) can also be helpful in promptly stopping nose bleeds. One must be careful to avoid overuse of such sprays as they can lead to a "rebound" effect. Ice and elevation of the head are also sometimes helpful.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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