Severe Nosebleed in Children

Nosebleeds occur commonly in childhood and usually end shortly after they begin. However, some nosebleeds are severe and may last more than 20 minutes. Such nosebleeds may require medical intervention.

Causes

• Nosebleeds may occur when a child has a cold or sinus infection. Also, children with allergies are more prone to having nosebleeds. Nosebleeds may also be the result of nose-picking or nose trauma.

Considerations

• Nosebleeds are common and generally are not an indication of a serious condition. However, if your child suddenly begins having frequent nosebleeds or if he starts getting nosebleeds after beginning a new medication, discuss the nosebleeds with your child's doctor. Rarely, frequent and severe nosebleeds may be indicative of a serious condition such as a bleeding disorder or leukemia.

Home Treatment

• If your child has a severe nosebleed, you should put her in your lap. Tell her to lean forward just a little bit. You should then use a cloth or tissue to pinch your child's nostrils together. Continue to apply gentle pressure for 10 minutes. When 10 minutes is up, check to see if the bleeding has subsided. If not, repeat for another 10 minutes. If bleeding continues after 20 minutes, consult a doctor.

Warnings

• Don't let your child lie down because blood may then travel to the throat and trigger vomiting. Also, do not insert cotton balls into his nose.

Medical Treatment

• Severe nosebleeds may require medical intervention. Your child's doctor may apply silver nitrate to the source of the nosebleed to stop it. Also, medications may be administered via nose drops. Such medications stop nose bleeds by causing the blood vessels to constrict.

Prevention

• Nosebleeds often occur when the interior of the nose becomes dried out. Using a humidifier at night and using saline nose drops can help prevent the inside of the nose from drying out. Nosebleeds that occur as the result of allergies may be prevented by treating allergies with medication.