Ever since I was a child I have suffered from recurrent nosebleeds. Why do I get them?
Nosebleeds, otherwise known as epistaxis, are a common occurrence in childhood and adults and, by and large, can usually be dealt with successfully at home without recourse to medical assistance.
The bleeding occurs from the nasal cavity and the frequency of bleeding, the site and the cause will determine the seriousness of the disorder.
The nasal cavity's rich blood supply makes it especially susceptible to bleeding.
Generally speaking, damage to the blood vessel lining can be caused by blowing the nose too hard, picking at it or by traumatic damage from a blow.
It may also occur if a foreign body is inserted into the nose - a frequent occurrence in young children.
Environmental factors such as artificially dry air can leave the nasal cavity prone to cracking and bleeding.
Inhaled irritants can cause the nasal blood vessels to become fragile and more likely to haemorrhage.
There are a wide range of internal causes of epistaxis which include infection, a vascular disorder such as hypertension, rheumatic fever, haemophilia and leukaemia.
The use of blood-thinning medication can cause a more extensive bleed that is harder to stem.
More commonly sinusitis, hayfever or other respiratory allergies can make you more susceptible to nosebleeds.
I do suffer from hayfever and sinusitis, so this could be the cause of my problem?
Sinusitis or any other infection that causes acute congestion of the nasal passages may cause epistaxis, while hayfever can irritate the nasal lining precipitating a bleed.
If this is the cause of your nose bleeding problems, you could try using a humidifier to moisten the air you breathe.
You could also try a dab of petroleum jelly applied just inside your nose to help keep it moist.
But for a definitive diagnosis of the cause of your epistaxis you should really see your medical practitioner.
What's the best way to stop a nosebleed?
When your nose starts to bleed sit up, lean forward and grasp the entire lower half of the nose between your thumb and fingers.
Press both sides of the nose firmly against the central septum for about 10 minutes to allow a clot to form.
Do not blow your nose for 12 hours after the bleed and try to avoid swallowing the blood.
If bleeding continues after 20 minutes, seek medical assistance as you may require gauze packing, cauterisation of the blood vessels or balloon compression in order to stem the bleed.