When your child has a nosebleed, it can be scary to see them losing blood right before your eyes. But most nosebleeds in children are mild and easy to manage at home—especially if you know what’s causing them and how to stop the bleeding. Learn more here!
Anatomy of a nosebleed
Nose bleeds are typically not serious, but it can be scary if you’re the parent. The most important thing is that you don’t panic. Kids usually just need a little bit of time for their nose to stop bleeding, which will happen on its own. A pediatrician says that when children have nose bleeds more than once a month, or if they have recurring nose bleeds with no obvious cause, then the child should be evaluated by an ear, nose and throat specialist. Nose bleeds are caused by either dryness or excess moisture in the nasal passages or sinuses. Dry air can lead to irritation, causing the membranes inside of your nostrils to swell up like a balloon, which can lead to a tear that causes bleeding.
Common causes of nosebleeds in children
The most common causes of nosebleeds in children are from a dry air environment, trauma to the nose, high altitudes (such as mountain travel), or ingestion of a chemical irritant. As soon as you notice your child has a nosebleed, you should try to stop it by pinching their nostrils together with your fingers. Continue holding them closed until the bleeding has stopped. It’s also important that they keep their head forward so that blood doesn’t run down the back of their throat. If the bleeding persists for more than 15 minutes or so, then it might be time to visit a pediatric clinic.
How to manage a nosebleed at home
If your child has a nosebleed, don’t panic. Nosebleeds are common in kids and can happen for many reasons. Here’s how to take care of it:
– Clean the child’s face with a wet washcloth or sponge
– Use gauze or cotton balls (not tissue) if there is bleeding from the nostrils -apply pressure with a clean cloth over the nose for 10 minutes
– Have them lean forward so blood doesn’t come out their mouth
– If bleeding continues after 20 minutes, call your pediatrician.
When to seek medical help for a nosebleed
If your child has been actively bleeding for more than 10 minutes, or you suspect a clot may be present, take them to the nearest pediatric clinic. If the bleeding is minor, use a clean cloth to apply pressure. But don’t remove any clots that form on the inside of their nose. If they’re wearing a helmet, make sure it’s taken off first. Change out of clothes that could get dirty or bloody; wash anything that can be washed. Talk with your pediatrician if the nosebleed continues over two days or if it happens again after stopping.
If you have any questions, please contact Pediatric Heroes Primary Care Clinic at 210-625-5708 or visit this website.
