My child gets nosebleeds lately, is something seriously wrong?

Many children get nosebleeds throughout childhood, and most often it is nothing serious. Possible causes of common nosebleeds (epistaxis) in children are dry air, frequent nose blowing, nose picking, nasal injury, and allergies. Some diseases can cause nosebleeds, but luckily they are rare.

Home Treatment:

• Firmly pinch the nostrils closed together and hold continuously for 10 minutes, holding over the bony part won't stop the bleeding
• Have child lean forward and spit out any blood in the mouth
• Release the nose after 10 minutes, if still bleeding then squeeze the nostrils again for another 10 minutes

Prevention:

• Use a humidifier during the dry, winter months and during a "cold"
• Nasal saline sprays keep nasal membranes moist
• Apply petroleum jelly inside the nose twice a day
• Use positive reinforcement to discourage child from nose picking
• Treat nasal allergies as directed by health care provider
• Avoid frequent use of Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)

Call our office if:

• The nose bleed does not stop after 20 minutes
• The nosebleed is a result of a traumatic injury
• You see a foreign body in the nose
• Your child feels lightheaded or dizzy
• Nosebleeds are occurring daily despite preventative measures
• Nosebleeds are accompanied by other unusual bleeding or excessive bruising

les of duct tape treatments, the wart is still there—please call the office for advice.