Nose Bleeds in Children

Nosebleeds are common in childhood and usually do not signal serious problems. These do stop with treatment at home, but medical intervention may be necessary for bleeds that are difficult to control. Children typically outgrow nosebleeds during the teen years.

Causes

• Nosebleeds are caused when the small veins in the nasal lining burst. This may be triggered by trauma to the head or nose as well as nose picking. Dry weather, allergies, colds and sinus infections lead to nosebleeds due to a lack of moist air and swelling of the nasal passages.

Underlying Conditions

• Nosebleeds may be related to blood clotting disorders or cancer in rare cases. Abnormal structures within the nose as well as growths occur infrequently, but can lead to nosebleeds.

Prevention

• Use a humidifier to keep air moist and prevent nasal passages from drying out. Saline drops can also be used to keep passages moist and clear. Discourage nose picking or putting foreign objects in the nose. Treating allergies also prevents nosebleeds because the effects of the irritant are minimized.

Home Treatment

• Have your child spit out any blood that might be in the mouth. Lean the child forward while she is sitting on your lap and pinch her nostrils closed using a tissue or washcloth; apply continuous gentle pressure for 10 minutes, reminding your child to breath through her mouth. If this does not stop the bleeding, use a cold compress across the bridge of the nose and pinch the nostrils shut for another 10 minutes.

Medical Treatment

• See a doctor if home treatments are unsuccessful or if nose bleeds occur frequently. Medicated drops that constrict blood vessels may be placed in the nose by the doctor to stop the bleeding.