Nosebleeds, or epistaxis, are a medical condition resulting from hemorrhaging in the nose. Nosebleeds are fairly common, as the nose is located in a vulnerable area and filled with blood vessels. In some cases, nosebleeds can be severe and involve a large amount of bleeding. In other situations, the bleeding can be minor.

Usually, the blood from nosebleeds drains externally from the nostrils. It is possible, however, for nosebleeds to bleed from inside and drain into the throat or out of a person’s eyes. In other cases, the blood may drain into the stomach. This can cause the stomach to become upset and may also lead to vomiting.

There are a variety of possible causes for nosebleeds. One of the most common types of nosebleeds results from the nasal membranes drying out, which causes them to crust over and crack. Individuals living in dry climates are more prone to these types of nosebleeds. Similarly, these nosebleeds are more common in the winter, when indoor air becomes dried out from heating.

Trauma is another cause of nosebleeds. The nose is quite sensitive and, therefore, can bleed fairly easily when hit or when fractured. Even a brushing blow against the nose can cause it to bleed. Excessive pressure on the nose, such as that experienced in high altitudes, can also lead to nosebleeds. Allergies affecting the nose can cause bleeding, as can nose-picking and high blood pressure.

Certain medications, particularly those that prevent the blood from clotting normally, can also make a person more susceptible to nosebleeds. Common medications associated with increased nosebleeds include anti-inflammatory medications, warfarin, Coumadin, and aspirin. Even minor trauma to the nose can result in a substantial amount of bleeding in people taking these medications.

Some diseases are also associated with nosebleeds. These include hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and Wegener’s granulomatosis. If sarcoidosis affects the nose, it can also lead to nosebleeds, as can Von Willebrand disease, cancer of the neck or head, or nasal polyps.

Treatment for nosebleeds depends on the cause and the severity of the bleeding. In most cases, applying direct pressure to the nose can stop the bleeding. According to some experts, it is best to apply pressure on the bridge of the nose. Others believe it is best to place pressure on the fleshy area. Similarly, some experts feel it is best to tilt the head in a forward position in order to drain the blood out, while others believe it best to tilt the head backward in order to minimize the amount of blood loss.