Nose Hemorrhage

Definition

Nose hemorrhage is bleeding from the lining (mucous membrane) from the nose. More commonly known as a, “nosebleed.”

Signs and symptoms

Nosebleeds usually only occur in one nostril, and most commonly occur during childhood. Typically, nosebleeds are not severe.

Cause

In adults, most nosebleeds occur because of trauma in the form of a blow to the nose. Other causes include forceful nose blowing, fingernail scratches, infections, virus, nutrient deficiencies and dry skin. Reoccurring nosebleeds might be a sign of a condition such as high blood pressure (hypertension), internal blood disorder, or tumor in the sinus cavity.

Note: Blood thinners such as Coumadin or aspirin can also cause nosebleeds. If you are taking a blood thinner, and you are experiencing nosebleeds, notify your doctor immediately.
Caution: In case of recurring nosebleeds or nosebleeds that will not stop, seek instant medical attention. Additionally, if your nose starts to bleed following a blow to the head, it may be an indicator that you have a fracture in the skull. Go to a hospital immediately.

Natural Cures

Aromatherapy: Lemon, rose, and cypress essential oils are all a good methods to help relax the body following a nosebleed.

Diet: Consume watercress, darkish green leafy vegetables, and alfalfa sprouts. All are rich sources of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting.

Homeopathy: Useful homeopathic remedies include Hyoscyamus, Chamomilla, Rhus tox., Ipecac., Belladonna, and Hamamelis.

Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy is the process of applying water, ice, steam and alternating cold and hot temperatures to restore health. Treatments include total body immersion, steam baths, saunas, sitz baths, colonic irrigation, and the application of warm and cold compresses. Hydrotherapy is effective for treating an array of conditions and can easily be used in the home as part of a personal-treatment program. Many professionals including naturopathic physicians, physical therapists and day spas use Hydrotherapy as part of their treatment routines. We suggest trying several at home hydrotherapy remedies. Please seek the advice of an alternative healthcare practitioner prior to undergoing these treatments to ensure they are right for you.

*Purified water is essential in any Hydrotherapy remedy. Remedies involving purifying bath water offer clear instructions.

Dietary Supplementation: Vitamin C with bioflavonoids, and rutin should be used on a daily basis if you are prone to nose bleeds.

Topical Ointment Treatment: As soon as bleeding has stopped, spread vitamin E , and vitamin A onto your nasal area to promote recovery and prevent dryness. As an alternative, you can also use zinc oxide, aloe vera gel, or calendula cream, and cover with gauze.

Do immediately: If there is no danger of head fracture, sit down, lean forward, blow all the blood out of both nostrils, open your mouth and breathe deeply. As you do this, pinch the lower part of your nose for 5 to 10 minutes, then slowly discharge pressure. If your nose proceeds to bleed beyond the first 20 minutes of doing this, fill your nose with gauze and apply ice. Afterwards, lie down, and refrain from any motion or activity for an additional 30 to 60 minutes. In the event that bleeding continues, visit a doctor. In unusual but severe cases, you may also require surgery.

Alternative Expert Care

If your symptoms persist despite following the steps listed above, seek the assistance of a qualified health professional. The following professional therapies have all proven useful for dealing with nosebleeds: Acupressure, Acupuncture, Environmental Medicine, Naturopathic Medicine, Osteopathy, Reflexology, and traditional Chinese Medicine. (See Glossary for descriptions of these alternative therapies.)