What causes nosebleeds?

The common site for a nosebleed to start is from just inside the entrance of the nostril, on the nasal septum (the middle harder part of the nostril). Here the blood vessels are quite fragile and can rupture easily for no apparent reason. This happens most commonly in children. This delicate area is also more likely to bleed with the following.

• Picking the nose.
• Colds, and blocked stuffy noses such as hayfever.
• Blowing the nose.
• Minor injuries to the nose.

In the above situations, the bleeding tends to last only a short time and is usually easy to control. The bleeding may last longer and be harder to stop if you have: heart failure; a blood clotting disorder; are taking 'blood thinning' drugs (anticoagulants) such as warfarin or aspirin.

Bleeding sometimes comes from other areas further back in the nose. It is sometimes due to uncommon disorders of the nose, or to serious injuries to the nose.

- Next: What is the treatment for nosebleeds?

More help and advice

- Get help on basic first aid for kids
- Tips on treating nosebleeds
- Tips on keeping your kids safe at home
- What should you have in your medicine cabinet?

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• Next: What is the treatment for nosebleeds in children?

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