NOSEBLEED FIRST AID : causes , prevention , treatment

 NOSEBLEED 

Nosebleed either occur spontaneously or are the result of some sort of trauma , such as a hit to the face . Things that cause nosebleed are certain medical condition extreme cold and / or dry air , nose picking , strenuous activity , certain medications  and being hit in the nose . 

Most nosebleeds occur in the front of the nose when there is damage to the blood vessels . other nosebleed occur in the back of the nose, causing bleeding into the throat . Nosebleed can be frightening , but they aren't usually a sign of anything  serious and can often be treated at home .

During a nosebleed , blood flows from one or both nostrils it can be heavy or light and last from a few seconds to 15 minutes or more . 

CAUSES OF NOSEBLEED

The inside of nose is full of tiny , delicate blood vessels that can become damaged and bleed relatively  easily . 

- children between two and 10 years of age 

- elderly people 

- pregnant women

- people who take blood thinning  medication such as aspirin or anticoagulants , such as warfarin 

- people with blood clotting disorders , such as haemophilia 

Bleeding may also be heavier or last longer if you take anticoagulants , have a blood clotting disorders, or have high blood pressure 

PREVENTION OF NOSEBLEEDING 

Things you can do to prevent nosebleeds include :

- avoid picking your nose and keep your fingernails shorts 

- blow your nose as little as possible and only vey gently 

- keep your home humidified 

- wear a head guard during  activities in which your nose or head could get injured

- always follow the instruction that come with nasal decongestants - overusing these can cause nosebleeds

TREATING NOSEBLEEDING 

Most nosebleed can be stopped without the need for medical attention , but occasionally further treatment may be required . 

 sit down and firmly pinch the soft part of your nose , just above your nostrils , for at least 10 - 15 minutes. 

lean forward and breathe through your mouth - this will drain blood into your nose instead of down the back of your throat.

place an ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables covered by a towel on the bridge of your nose. 

stay upright , rather than lying down as this reduces the blood pressure in the blood vessels of your nose and will discourage further bleeding