Dealing with nosebleeds in children

Though they’re not usually a serious medical concern, nosebleeds in children can be frightening and socially disabling. Nosebleeds at school, friends’ houses or birthday parties can be quite disruptive, as many people are scared of blood and often nobody really knows what to do about it. What causes nosebleeds?  Almost all nosebleeds are caused by a drying of the nasal mucosa. The inside of our noses is lined by mucosa — the same moist tissue that lines our mouth — and just like in our mouths, constant airflow around that mucosa can dry and irritate it. Considering the fact that we breathe through our nose all day every day, it’s pretty remarkable that everyone isn’t walking around with constant nosebleeds. What should I do right after a nosebleed starts? Have your child lean forward and let the blood drip from his nose onto a towel. This won’t stop the bleeding, but it’s better for the blood to run outwards than down the back of his throat into the stomach, which will cause nausea and vomiting. Apply pressure where the bleeding is happening — almost always at the lower (cartilage or soft) part of the nose below the nasal bone. The goal is to apply pressure on the bleeding vessel inside the nose, not to simply pinch the openings of the nose shut. To do that, feel where the nasal bone ends and squeeze the entire lower nose together, between your thumb and index finger. You can practice this technique ahead of time on yourself and your child. When done corr...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Kids' Safety Parenting David Roberson General Pediatric Otolaryngology Program nosebleeds in children Sports & exercise Source Type: news