What a Bloody Nose Means

Nosebleeds stem from a number of causes, few of which are cause for serious concern. If the nosebleed doesn't stop within a few minutes of applied pressure, speak to a doctor.

Damage

• The most obvious cause of a bloody nose is injury to the nose itself. The nose can also be damaged by certain forms of drug abuse, such as cocaine.

Dry Air

• Dry air reduces moisture in your nasal membranes, making them more vulnerable to bleeding. It's a particularly big problem in the winter, when indoor heating tends to dry the air considerably.

High Blood Pressure

• Because the nose has so many blood vessels so close to the surface of the skin, high blood pressure can increase the chances of a nosebleed.

Medication

• Medication that thins the blood, such as aspirin or heparin, leads to an increased possibility of nosebleeds.

Allergies

• Allergies and sinus infections--especially those that cause violent sneezes--sometimes cause nosebleeds as well.