Why Do Nosebleeds (Epistaxis) Happen?

A nosebleed, also called epistaxis, is when blood comes out of one or both nostrils. It can look scary, but in most cases it’s not serious and can be managed at home.

Nosebleeds are especially common in children and older adults. The inside of the nose contains many tiny blood vessels close to the surface. These vessels are delicate and can break or bleed easily.

What causes nosebleeds?

Some of the most common reasons include:

• Dry air, which dries out the nose

• Frequent nose blowing from a cold or allergies

• Minor injuries, such as bumping the nose or picking it

• Irritants like smoke, chemicals, or very hot air

• Less commonly, medical issues such as high blood pressure, blood-thinning medicines, clotting problems, or growths in the nose and sinuses can also cause bleeding.

Types of nosebleeds

Anterior nosebleeds occur in the front part of the nose and are the most common. They usually stop quickly.

Posterior nosebleeds come from deeper inside the nose, often bleed more heavily, and may require medical treatment.

What to do if your nose starts bleeding

Sit up straight and lean slightly forward (to prevent blood from going down the throat).

Pinch the soft part of your nostrils together for 10–15 minutes without letting go.

Apply a cold cloth or ice pack to the nose or cheeks to help slow the bleeding.

When to see a doctor:

• If the bleeding lasts longer than 20 minutes

• If nosebleeds happen frequently

• If the bleeding is very heavy or follows an injury

Most nosebleeds are not serious, but knowing how to manage them can make the situation less stressful.