Nosebleed
Alternate Names : Epistaxis
A nosebleed is usually caused by a damaged blood vessel that leaks blood. Nosebleeds can affect all ages, but they are twice as common in children as in adults.
What is going on in the body?
When the blood vessels in the nose are damaged, they can bleed. Bleeding is most often limited to one nostril. If there is severe trauma to the nose, both nostrils may bleed.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Several possible causes of a nosebleed are as follows:
trauma or injury to the nose, which is the most common cause
nasal or sinus infection
excessive nose-blowing
uncontrolled high blood pressure
bleeding or clotting problem
tumor
cocaine use
the use of topical nasal steroid medicines
dry mucous membranes in the nose due to low humidity
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