Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Persistent Nose Bleeds In A 8 Year Old?
Question: My 8 year old has been having frequent nosebleeds. We saw a doctor who told us to try Vaseline in her nose and a humidifier. We have been doing that for a week and she continues to have nosebleeds (one every two days or so). Is this a sign of something more serious?
Brief Answer:
Most common reason for epistaxis is little's area bleed
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to the HCM
I understand your concerns but don't worry.
More than 90% of nasal bleeds or epistaxis occur anteriorly and arise from Little’s area, where the Kiesselbach plexus forms on the septum. They are not harmful to children's health.
The Kiesselbach plexus, or Little’s area, is an anastomotic network of vessels located on the anterior cartilaginous nasal septum.
Self-induced trauma from repeated nasal picking can cause anterior septal mucosal ulceration and bleeding.
Also, low humidity may lead to mucosal irritation. Epistaxis is more prevalent in dry climates and during cold weather due to the dehumidification of the nasal mucosa by home heating systems.
Approximately 10% of patients with epistaxis have no identifiable causes even after a thorough evaluation.
The following precautions should be imparted to the avoid epistaxis episodes:
-Use nasal saline spray.
-Avoid hard nose blowing or sneezing.
-Sneeze with the mouth open.
-Do not use nasal digital manipulation.
-Avoid hot and spicy foods.
-Avoid taking hot showers.
-Avoid aspirin and other NSAIDs.
The following simple instructions for self-treatment for minor epistaxis should be provided:
-Apply firm digital pressure for 5-10 minutes.
-Use an ice pack.
-Use a topical vasoconstrictor for 3-4 days such as
Xylometazoline nasal drops thrice daily.
I hope this will help you. I would be happy to help you in any further questions.
Take care.
Most common reason for epistaxis is little's area bleed
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to the HCM
I understand your concerns but don't worry.
More than 90% of nasal bleeds or epistaxis occur anteriorly and arise from Little’s area, where the Kiesselbach plexus forms on the septum. They are not harmful to children's health.
The Kiesselbach plexus, or Little’s area, is an anastomotic network of vessels located on the anterior cartilaginous nasal septum.
Self-induced trauma from repeated nasal picking can cause anterior septal mucosal ulceration and bleeding.
Also, low humidity may lead to mucosal irritation. Epistaxis is more prevalent in dry climates and during cold weather due to the dehumidification of the nasal mucosa by home heating systems.
Approximately 10% of patients with epistaxis have no identifiable causes even after a thorough evaluation.
The following precautions should be imparted to the avoid epistaxis episodes:
-Use nasal saline spray.
-Avoid hard nose blowing or sneezing.
-Sneeze with the mouth open.
-Do not use nasal digital manipulation.
-Avoid hot and spicy foods.
-Avoid taking hot showers.
-Avoid aspirin and other NSAIDs.
The following simple instructions for self-treatment for minor epistaxis should be provided:
-Apply firm digital pressure for 5-10 minutes.
-Use an ice pack.
-Use a topical vasoconstrictor for 3-4 days such as
Xylometazoline nasal drops thrice daily.
I hope this will help you. I would be happy to help you in any further questions.
Take care.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
