Epistaxis, commonly known as a nosebleed, is bleeding from the inside of the nose. It can be mild or heavy and usually comes from the front part of the nose (anterior epistaxis), which is more common and less serious. Less commonly, it may come from deeper in the nose (posterior epistaxis), which can be more difficult to control. While nosebleeds can be alarming, they are usually not dangerous and often stop on their own.

• Dry air or low humidity

• Nose picking or blowing the nose too hard

• Upper respiratory infections (like colds or sinusitis)

• Allergies or irritation from smoke or chemicals

• Injury or trauma to the nose

• Certain medications, such as blood thinners or nasal sprays

• Underlying health conditions like high blood pressure or clotting disorders (less common)

• Bleeding from one or both nostrils.

• A feeling of liquid running down the throat (in posterior nosebleeds).

• Light-headedness or dizziness if the bleeding is heavy.

• Sit upright and lean slightly forward (not backward).

• Pinch the soft part of the nose for 10-15 minutes continuously with an ice pack.

• Use a humidifier or saline spray if dry air is the cause.

• Avoid picking, blowing, or sneezing forcefully for several hours after a nosebleed.

• If bleeding is frequent or doesn't stop, a doctor may cauterize the bleeding vessel or place nasal packing.

• Treat underlying issues like allergies or high blood pressure if needed.

• If the nosebleed lasts longer than 20 minutes despite pressure

• If the bleeding is heavy or frequent

• If you are on blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder

• If the bleeding is from a nose injury or comes with difficulty breathing or swallowing blood

• An ENT consultant or specialist may be needed for frequent or difficult-to-treat nosebleeds